NHL confirms discussions for 33rd franchise in Houston
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 24, 2026, 11:00 PM
Last updated Aug 24, 2026
NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly announced ongoing negotiations for a new franchise in Houston, Texas. The league sees the potential for growth due to increased ratings and a developing talent pipeline in the state. Daly stated that discussions regarding a transaction framework are advancing, with hopes for a definitive agreement by December 2026 and a potential team debut by the 2029-30 season. Houston is currently favored over Austin to secure the new franchise.
- •NHL aims for expansion to Houston as its 33rd franchise.
- •Discussions advanced significantly, focusing primarily on Houston.
- •Agreement expected by December 2026, team debut by 2029-30 season.
- •Texas has a growing pipeline of young hockey talent.
- •Daly emphasizes Houston as the preferred location.
- 11:00 PMYahoo Sports — New Reports Suggest NHL in Advanced Talks to Bring 33rd NHL Franchise to Houston
"Capitalizing on surging ratings and a booming local talent pipeline, league officials move toward a definitive deal to plant a second professional team in the Lone Star State.
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