Gary Bettman tried to soft-sell it as much as he could, but history suggests there’s very likely a second NHL team coming to Texas.

The NHL is exploring expansion to 34 teams, with the leading candidates both in Texas (Houston and Austin) as the league is emboldened by southern team success.

The NHL is exploring expansion to Texas, with Houston and Austin as possibilities. A person with knowledge of the decision told The Associated Press on Tuesday.

Dan Friedkin signed a term sheet with the NHL and would own the potential Texas franchise with an estimated $3.5 billion investment.

Gary Bettman tried to soft-sell it as much as he could, but history suggests there’s very likely a second NHL team coming to Texas.

The NHL has taken the first step toward expanding to add a second team in Texas