Elliotte Friedman blows the doors wide open on NHL Expansion
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Elliotte Friedman believes he has cracked the code on Gary Bettman's long-term exit strategy, and it runs directly through two new NHL markets.
On the latest episode of 32 Thoughts, the Sportsnet insider laid out what he sees as the league's roadmap for the coming years.
My guesstimate... Houston, Atlanta if they can do it, new [US] TV deal, which is what a lot of people that own these teams are concerned about; after that... the Commissioner rides partly into the sunset.
Friedman expanded on the idea, suggesting Bettman would not simply walk away but shift into a different role once his checklist is complete.
He could become Vice Chair of the Board of Governors or take on a senior advisory position, handing the Commissioner title to deputy commissioner Bill Daly.
Why Houston and Atlanta
Houston has been mentioned in expansion circles for years, with Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta long viewed as a motivated buyer.
Atlanta, which has lost two NHL franchises since 1980, remains an intriguing market given its size and untapped hockey history in the market.
A New TV Deal Comes First
Friedman was clear that expansion fees and a new American broadcast agreement go hand in hand.
Growing the league to 34 teams would inject significant revenue into the sport, something owners are watching closely as the current US television contract approaches its next negotiation window.
Friedman cautioned that none of this happens overnight. He expects Bettman to remain in his current role for roughly two more years, with a possible retirement around age 77 if the expansion and broadcast pieces fall into place.
For now, Houston and Atlanta sit at the top of the list, with the league's TV future acting as the final piece before any changes at the top.
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