One city takes huge step forward in NHL expansion!

On Wednesday, NHL commissioner Gary Bettman claimed that there are no current plans for expansion, though he did report the NHL keeps getting interest from would-be markets. Kevin Weekes maintains that Atlanta remains a top contender for an eventual expansion in the league, and reported on Wednesday that “South Forsyth (Atlanta) got through state approvals for their development project and seems to be the leader of the pack at this time of cities without an arena yet.”

Atlanta could be back on the NHL map. Deputy commissioner Bill Daly even stated at the latest NHL/NHLPA player media tour that he believes Atlanta would yield better results than two previous failed expansion teams in the market.

The NHL first ventured to Atlanta in 1972 and stay until 1980 before the Flames relocated to Calgary. Then, the Thrashers entered the league in 1999 but became the Winnipeg Jets in 2011.

The last two expansions that have taken place in place in the NHL have shown great success with the Vegas Golden Knights and Seattle Kraken, which has generated more interest from potential owners.

Insider Pierre LeBrun, who reported the comments made today by Bettman, added:

“If you were to read between the lines, it seems to me more and more likely it’s eventually happening again.”

Stay tuned…

Recommended articles:

• NHL open to another expansion franchise
• Rumor: NHL-ready arena development to be announced on Monday.
• Three cities confirm their expansion interest to the NHL
• Bill Daly reveals current NHL expansion plans
• NHL source responds to Atlanta and Houston expansion rumors