NHL set to address Houston and Austin expansion bids this week
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 21, 2026, 1:50 PM
Last updated Sep 21, 2026
The NHL is scheduled to provide an update on potential expansion to Texas during its board of governors meeting. Commissioner Gary Bettman is expected to discuss the status of Houston and Austin as potential locations for the league's 33rd franchise. A decision on the expansion is anticipated within three months. The Friedkin Group's nonbinding term sheet with the NHL includes a six-month exploratory period for either city. Houston, with a larger market size, has influential backing, while Austin also has support from newer owners. However, the league may decide to remain at 32 teams if expansion doesn’t proceed.
- •NHL to update on Texas expansion plans this week.
- •Bettman will address Houston and Austin's bids.
- •Decision on expansion expected in three months.
- •Friedkin Group exploring options in both cities.
- •Potential for no change if the board disapproves expansion.
- 1:50 PMYahoo Sports — As NHL's expansion wheel churns, an update on Houston vs. Austin expected this week
"The NHL is expected to provide an update on Houston and Austin this week as the cities are being vetted to possibly house the league's 33rd franchise.
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