NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly indicated that a Texas-based franchise could join the league as early as the 2029-30 season, with an announcement possible in December. A group led by Dan Friedkin has exclusive rights for this expansion, with Houston as the preferred location, although Austin is being considered. The franchise fee is expected to approach $3.5 billion, significantly higher than past expansions. Interest in expanding to Canadian markets like Quebec City is low due to a lack of ownership groups ready to operate there.
