The National Hockey League is exploring the possibility of adding a new franchise in Texas, with Austin and Houston emerging as the most likely cities for the expansion.
The discussion is taking place during the league’s board of governors meeting in New York, where executives are weighing the financial and competitive implications of extending the NHL’s footprint into the Lone Star State.
A Look Back at Recent Expansion Rounds
The NHL’s most recent expansions brought the Vegas Golden Knights and the Seattle Kraken into the league, with franchise fees of $500 million and $650 million respectively, setting a precedent for the cost of entry.
Commissioner Gary Bettman has indicated that any future team would likely require a $2 billion expansion fee, a figure that reflects the league’s growing valuation and the premium placed on new markets.
This season the NHL projects record revenues between $7.5 billion and $8 billion, underscoring the financial strength that underpins the expansion ambitions.
The salary cap for the 2026‑27 season is set at $104 million, an $8.5 million increase from the previous year, providing teams with more spending flexibility as the league prepares for potential new arrivals.
Market Dynamics and Media Partnerships
Texas represents a sizable media market, and the league’s partnership with ESPN, which holds broadcast rights for many NHL games, could amplify the reach of a new franchise.
If approved, the expansion would not only add two teams but also open up fresh ticket sales, sponsorships, and regional broadcasting opportunities across the state.
The board is expected to vote on the proposal in the coming months, with a formal announcement likely to follow the next meeting of the governors.