We have an update for fans hoping for the return of the Quebec Nordiques and an expansion team in the National Capital.

Unfortunately, the news isn’t good.

A major story just dropped in the NHL in the past few hours, and it comes from the excellent journalist Emily Kaplan.

“Billionaire Dan Friedkin has emerged as a serious candidate to bring the NHL to Houston, sources told ESPN.

The NHL has met with the Friedkin group multiple times as the league has expressed interest in a potential expansion.

TFG also owns AS Roma and Everton in the Premier League.”

-Emily Kaplan

That’s when influential player agent Allan Walsh added this:

“As I’ve said multiple times recently, two new expansion teams are coming to the NHL.

Expect new franchises in Houston and Atlanta to each pay an expansion fee of $1.5 billion. #34Teams”

In other words, expect Gary Bettman to soon announce the arrival of two new expansion teams in the National Hockey League, located in Houston and Atlanta.

It’s incredible to see that Atlanta is getting another chance before Quebec, but that’s the way it is.

 

 

Two Expansion Teams Coming to Houston and Atlanta: Another Blow to the Return of the Quebec Nordiques

This is serious, especially for Houston.

 

See what the well-known David Pagnotta had to add on the subject.

“Excellent work by Emily.

Houston has been on the NHL’s radar for quite some time.

The NHL had discussions with Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta, but his willingness to spend money on a team, an arena, and renovations was in doubt.

As Gary Bettman told Dennis from TFP and me a few weeks ago, if you want a team and you check all four of the NHL’s boxes, they’ll explore the possibility.

If it happens, it’ll be because someone put all the pieces in place,” he said.

On NHL Network, analyst Kevin Weekes was even more clear.

“There will be 34 teams.”

So just know, it’s coming, and it’s coming fast.