Report: Houston or Austin could get NHL team by 2029-30

Houston billionaire Dan Friedkin's company, Pursuit Sports, has agreed to pay a $2 billion expansion fee to bring an NHL franchise — the league's 33rd team — to either Houston or Austin, Texas. NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly indicated the league expects to meet with Friedkin's group in September and could announce an expansion decision by the end of 2024, with the team potentially beginning play in the 2029-30 season. The deal still requires approval from the NHL's Board of Governors and the ability to build a suitable arena in the chosen city.