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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 confirms discussions for 33rd franchise in Houston

Summary

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.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•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.

Latest Updates

11:00 PMYahoo Sports — New Reports Suggest NHL in Advanced Talks to Bring 33rd NHL Franchise to Houston

What they're saying

"
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.
— Yahoo Sports

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