Gary Bettman and Bill Daly finally reveal the truth about NHL expansion
Photo credit: James Carey Lauder-USA TODAY Sports
Gary Bettman addressed reporters following the NHL's Board of Governors meeting this week, making clear that the league has not finalized anything regarding a potential 33rd franchise in Texas.
The commissioner's remarks came as speculation continues to swirl around a possible Houston or Austin franchise tied to the Friedkin family's ongoing pursuit of an expansion team.
"No decisions whatsoever were made," Bettman said.
Pushing back on the notion that a vote or firm timeline has been established for the league's next move.
Daly adds no urgency to timeline
Deputy commissioner Bill Daly echoed that sentiment in comments relayed by insider Chris Johnston on social media.
Daly reportedly told those present that there is no fixed deadline pressuring the league to resolve the Texas situation, and that a vote at the December board meeting is far from guaranteed at this stage.
That framing suggests the process, which began publicly earlier this year when the league's executive committee endorsed a term sheet with the Friedkin family, remains fluid.
The agreement covers a potential arrangement worth roughly $3.5 billion between an expansion fee and new arena construction costs, but no formal proposal has been placed before the full board for approval.
What comes next for expansion
Governors have also received updates on interest from other markets, including Atlanta and Arizona, though those situations trail behind the Texas discussions in terms of progress.
League sources have indicated feasibility work between Houston and Austin is still underway, with no clear preference publicly stated between the two cities.
For now, the message from both Bettman and Daly is one of patience rather than urgency.
Fans hoping for clarity before the calendar turns to 2027 may need to keep waiting, as ownership groups and league officials continue evaluating logistics behind the scenes.
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