Why expansion to Houston makes too much sense for the NHL

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman has indicated the league is considering expansion to Houston, according to an ESPN report published on October 7, 2026. The article, written by NHL reporter Ryan S. Clark, outlines why Houston would be a logical fit for a new NHL franchise. The report comes amid other significant league news, including Alex Ovechkin's retirement announcement causing a 90.3% spike in ticket prices for Washington Capitals games.