NHL deputy commissioner says Texas franchise could be approved by year-end

At a press event in Munich, NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly revealed that the league is moving forward with plans to add a Texas team, aiming for board approval by the close of the year. The prospective ownership group, headed by Houston billionaire Dan Friedkin, has already committed to the $2 billion expansion fee and is assessing arena construction possibilities in Houston or Austin. Daly said an update from the group is expected in the coming weeks, with a follow-up meeting slated for September.

If the board of governors signs off, the league will announce a 33rd franchise by year-end, likely to begin play within three seasons. Meanwhile, the NHL is also in talks with other ownership groups about a 34th team, with a target start date of the 2029-30 season, including potential markets such as Phoenix and Atlanta.