The National Hockey League is contemplating expansion, eyeing a 33rd franchise that would make Texas its new home, with Houston and Austin emerging as the leading candidates.
The Friedkin family, led by billionaire Dan Friedkin, has been granted exclusive rights to pursue the franchise, using its investment arm Pursuit Sports to drive the effort.
Pursuit Sports will conduct a detailed assessment of each city’s arena infrastructure, fan base size and economic climate, weighing the merits of Houston’s deep‑rooted sports tradition against Austin’s rapidly growing hockey community.
Dan Friedkin’s wealth stems from Gulf States Toyota, a dealership network that moved more than $13 billion worth of vehicles in 2025, providing the financial muscle needed for a championship‑caliber team.
The family’s sports portfolio extends to three European soccer clubs — A.S. Roma, A.S. Cannes and Everton F.C. — underscoring a trans‑Atlantic presence that could bolster the NHL project.
Texas’s hockey landscape
In Austin, the Texas Stars already serve as the city’s AHL affiliate, offering a direct developmental link to a future NHL club, while Houston has been without a top‑level hockey franchise since the Aeros ceased operations in 2013.
The contrast between the two cities highlights both opportunity and challenge. Houston’s massive market and existing arena capacity present a compelling case, whereas Austin’s growing youth participation and supportive local ownership could foster a sustainable fan culture. Whichever city ultimately receives the franchise, the move would mark the NHL’s first permanent expansion into the Lone Star State in decades, reshaping regional sports dynamics.
The selection process is expected to conclude in the coming months, after which the new franchise will begin building its roster, branding and community initiatives, aiming to debut for the 2027‑28 season.