NHL executives deny imminent expansion to the Atlanta market

NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly stated that potential expansion to Atlanta is not in an application phase following inaccurate social media claims. Rumors emerged after an account alleged that a developer had submitted a final financing packet to the league. Vernon Krause, CEO of Krause Sports and Entertainment, subsequently walked back the claim, labeling information shared during a community meeting as incomplete. Two competing local groups currently seek to bring a franchise to the area, though neither has received formal approval. Meanwhile, the league maintains its primary expansion focus on a Texas-based bid led by The Friedkin Group. The NHL board of governors has yet to establish a timeline for adding a 33rd or 34th franchise beyond ongoing league evaluations.

• 10:20 PMYahoo Sports — NHL executives pour cold water on Atlanta expansion rumors