Even without a formalized process in place, the prospect of NHL expansion is heating up for a 33rd, and possibly 34th, team.
The league is continuing efforts to add a 33rd and possibly 34th team, both in the already powerful South.
Aug 25, 2026 | 12:23 pm
David Kirouac-Imagn Images
Even without a broad, formalized process in place, the prospect of NHL expansion is heating up across multiple markets.
As the league approaches the start of its 2026–27 regular season, several developments are emerging to push the NHL closer to its 33rd team, and a possible 34th one eventually. Among the recent events:
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The NHL is aiming to choose between Houston and Austin for its 33rd franchise by year's end, and also has major TV markets like…
The NHL is exploring expansion to 34 teams, with the leading candidates both in Texas (Houston and Austin) as the league is…
A second NHL team in Texas to join the Stars would further expand the league’s already-powerful presence across the U.S. Sun Belt.
With the NHL in the exploratory phases of expanding, we're going to test the waters to get an early gauge on the expansion draft…
The NHL deputy commissioner said the team could be announced by the "end of this calendar year," with Houston the most likely…
With the NHL in the exploratory phases of expanding, we're going to test the waters to get an early gauge on the expansion draft…
