Re-Ranking Cities for NHL Expansion in the Next Five Years
The NHL is preparing for future expansion and has started evaluating potential new markets. While no official timeline exists, the league is currently analyzing what cities like Austin, Texas could offer as a home for a new franchise. Expanding by a single team is unlikely, as the league historically prefers to add teams in pairs to maintain balance.
Our current analysis ranks potential candidate cities based on market size, ownership interest, and infrastructure. Austin sits at the top of the list because the city lacks other major professional sports leagues and has a population of over one million people. Houston follows closely behind, with billionaire Dan Friedkin expressing interest in bringing a franchise to that market. Both Texas cities are under active review by league officials.
Other cities on the list include Atlanta, which remains a contender despite a history of past departures, and Phoenix, which the league continues to monitor should a viable ownership group and arena plan emerge. Québec City remains a sentimental favorite for many fans, though economic realities like a weak Canadian dollar make a return to the market difficult. Indianapolis and New Orleans round out the bottom of the rankings as long shots.
Ultimately, the success of any expansion effort relies on the ability of local investors to secure significant capital and build suitable arenas. The price to join the NHL is currently in the billions, meaning only the most prepared groups will see their bids succeed. As the process moves forward, the league will focus on finding partners capable of long-term success.