Houston 'Priority' Over Austin As NHL Eyes 33rd Franchise Commitment By December, What About Canada?

The NHL is targeting a commitment for its 33rd franchise by December, with Houston identified as the priority market and Austin as an alternative destination in Texas. NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly spoke exclusively with The Hockey News during the league's European Media Tour stop in Munich on Friday, confirming that serious discussions are ongoing with a Texas-based ownership group. Daly also addressed Canadian expansion prospects, acknowledging Quebec City's potential while noting that economic realities are currently directing expansion efforts toward the United States.