The Seattle Kraken joined the NHL less than two years ago. However, it appears that the NHL is already considering expanding the league to 34 teams. Gary Bettman has made it clear that he sees expansion as a critical component of the game’s growth, but that the nearly $1 billion expansion fee will likely drive him.
Bill Daley recently stated that the league was only in the exploratory phase and that nothing concrete was in the works. However, according to insider Kevin Weekes, the city of Atlanta is working hard to lure the NHL back to Georgia. According to Weekes, Atlanta is expected to announce a new arena that could house an NHL team.
Further to yesterday’s tweet…
** BREAKING NEWS 🚨 📰 ON ** The Gathering project in South Forsyth aims to be the center of entertainment in North Georgia.
The main square, shops, residential, hotels and restaurants. Led by Vernon Krause, CEO of the Krause Auto Group. Do @tweet Team return? pic.twitter.com/HyKI8Yv7mc– Kevin Weekes (@KevinWeekes) April 17, 2023
Despite two failed attempts to make the Atlanta market a success, the Georgia region has long been coveted by the NHL. Creating a new arena can provide the NHL with many options. Atlanta could be a viable market if the league decides to expand, but if the NHL and Arizona Coyotes lose their upcoming vote, Atlanta could be a transfer market.
The NHL has struggled in Atlanta in the past due to ownership issues; Can a new ownership group overcome this problem, or is Atlanta doomed?