Houston mayor wants NHL team: ‘We’ll definitely be a better location than Austin’ The National Hockey League is considering adding a 33rd team in Texas, with Houston and Austin as the primary contenders for the expansion franchise. Bill Daly, the league’s deputy commissioner, revealed in late August that the NHL could finalize its decision by year’s end. Houston Mayor John Whitmore has publicly supported the city’s bid, arguing that Houston would be a more strategic choice than Austin, which is approximately 265 kilometers away. Whitmore emphasized Houston’s readiness to host the team, stating, “We’re talking to multiple parties that are interested… So when we get a proposal, if the city can do something to a system, we’ll be there. We’ll definitely be a better location than Austin.” He highlighted Houston’s status as the fourth-largest U.S. market, contrasting it with Austin’s emerging reputation as a unique, tech-driven city. “I think [the NHL] would never regret it if they gave a franchise to Houston. They’d never regret it,” Whitmore added. “Austin is a great city, but it’s not Houston… If you talk to the sports franchises in town, I think they’d tell you we’re great partners.” Houston-based billionaire Dan Friedkin has already committed to paying a $2 billion expansion fee, contingent on the construction of an arena in either Houston or Austin and final approval from the NHL’s Board of Governors. This financial backing underscores Houston’s strong interest in securing the franchise. However, the NHL’s expansion plans extend beyond Texas. Daly noted that discussions are ongoing with at least two groups regarding a potential 34th team, though these talks are not as advanced. “They’re projecting the ability to start play in [Texas in] 2029-30,” Daly told The Athletic. “So we will have one down and potentially one to go.#austin #nhl #houston #houston_mayor #john_whitmore
