The buzz around NHL expansion has reached a fever pitch, with fans and insiders eagerly awaiting news about the league’s next big move. As the Stanley Cup Final kicked off in Edmonton, all eyes were on NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, who addressed the media just hours before puck drop. With longstanding speculation about the possible return of the Quebec Nordiques and the addition of new teams, many expected a groundbreaking announcement that would reshape the hockey landscape.

However, what unfolded during Bettman’s annual press conference was far from the confirmation many had hoped for. Instead, the NHL’s top executives delivered a surprising update that left more questions than answers, hinting at a cautious approach to expansion rather than an imminent decision. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation, as rumors continued to swirl about cities like Houston and Atlanta positioning themselves as frontrunners for future franchises. Yet, the official stance from the league suggested that any new additions would be considered only under the right circumstances, with no formal process underway.

As the hockey world digests these unexpected comments, the future of NHL expansion—and the dream of reviving iconic teams—remains as intriguing and uncertain as ever.

Jun 4, 2025; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; National Hockey League commissioner Gary Bettman speaks to the media before game one of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final between the Florida Panthers and the Edmonton Oilers at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Walter Tychnowicz-Imagn Image

Photo credit: Walter Tychnowicz-Imagn Images

A few hours before Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman spoke about the Quebec Nordiques.

During his traditional annual press conference, Commissioner Bettman was asked about NHL expansion and specifically about the return of the Quebec Nordiques.

While many expected him to confirm that expansion is coming, what we got instead was a major twist.

Surprising Statement from Gary Bettman Regarding the Arrival of Two New NHL Expansion Teams and the Possible Return of the Quebec Nordiques

While the vast majority of experts agree that a new NHL expansion process is coming sooner rather than later, Bettman seemed to backtrack.. and Bill Daly added to it!

“There will be no formal expansion process in the NHL, according to Bill Daly. If a group or businessman presents a project that’s worth being reviewed by the Board of Governors, the right to proceed will then be granted.”

– Renaud Lavoie

Groups can still make an attempt, but this was clearly not the big announcement many were expecting.

As for the specific issue of bringing back the Quebec Nordiques, Bettman stuck to his usual refrain.

Here’s a longer version of his response regarding expansion:

“We’ve received a lot of attention from markets interested in hosting a franchise.
Several meetings on the subject have also taken place.

We have decided not to launch a process, but if someone wants to apply for an expansion team – and meets all of our requirements – we’ll gauge the interest of the Board of Governors,” said Daly.

“There are people we’ve spoken to more than others. Still, there is considerable interest.” Via TVA Sports article

Renaud Lavoie’s post did indeed summarize the NHL executives’ response very well.

It’s worth noting that the cities of Houston and Atlanta are frequently mentioned in the rumors surrounding potential NHL expansion teams.