NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly has indicated that league expansion is not currently a top priority for the NHL. However, he suggested that if new teams were to be added, they would most likely be based in the United States.
“I wouldn’t say we are in an active expansion process right now,” Daly commented. “And I wouldn’t say it’s a priority for us. However, the additions of teams in Las Vegas and Seattle serve as examples of successful expansion efforts. There are investors who have shown interest in establishing new clubs.”
When asked about the potential locations for expansion, Daly pointed out the current distribution of teams: “Canada or the U.S.? We have seven teams in Canada and 22 on the U.S. market. I say 22 because three are in New York and two are in Los Angeles. Essentially, we are present in 22 U.S. cities, while other professional leagues operate in 30 or 31 U.S. cities.”
He further elaborated, stating, “There is still room for growth within the United States.”
Daly’s remarks highlight the league’s focus on the American market as the most likely area for future expansion.
