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 Atlanta and Phoenix in mind for No. 34.

Even without a formalized process in place, the prospect of NHL expansion is heating up for a 33rd, and possibly 34th, team.

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 Atlanta and Phoenix in mind for No. 34.