For years, the dream of seeing the Quebec Nordiques skate back onto NHL ice has flickered in the hearts of hockey fans across Quebec City and beyond. With each passing season, speculation about the league’s next expansion destination grows more intense, and the possibility of a Nordiques revival never seems to fully disappear. While cities like Atlanta and Houston have dominated recent headlines as potential frontrunners for a new NHL franchise, a recent press conference with Commissioner Gary Bettman has reignited hope for fans north of the border.

During a candid conversation on TVA Sports, Bettman’s carefully chosen words and subtle hints have sparked a fresh wave of excitement and debate. Although the commissioner stopped short of making any firm promises, his comments left the door open just enough to fuel renewed optimism in Quebec. As the NHL continues to enjoy unprecedented popularity and record-breaking attendance, the question of where—and when—the league might expand next has never felt more urgent. For Quebec Nordiques fans, Bettman’s latest remarks are more than just diplomatic answers; they’re a glimmer of hope that their beloved team could one day return to the big stage.

Oct 14, 2024; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; NHL commissioner Gary Bettman gives a press conference before the game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Montreal Canadiens at the Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

Even though cities like Atlanta and Houston are expected to be next in line to receive an NHL team, we shouldn’t count Quebec City out too quickly.

On TVA Sports, Félix Séguin discussed several topics with Commissioner Gary Bettman.

Among the topics was the potential return of the Quebec Nordiques, and while Bettman didn’t fully commit, he didn’t shut the door either.

Gary Bettman comments on the return of the Quebec Nordiques

Here’s the exact quote:

“We’ve heard about their interest in this regard, but no formal process was initiated after that. […]

I can’t give you an exact date here.”

– Gary Bettman

Wow. So, there has been renewed interest since the last formal process.

It’s clear that whenever the topic of Quebec is brought up, the commissioner remains just as evasive.

He then touched on the subject of a potential NHL expansion, and once again, stated that the league is not currently pursuing one.

“All of that would be preliminary, and I don’t want to start circulating rumors.

It’s not a priority for us.

Our sport is in excellent shape, and our 32 teams have never been healthier.

For the first time in our history, we welcomed over 23 million spectators.”

– Gary Bettman

However, reading between the lines, expansion seems more likely sooner than later – and if Quebec City hopes to be seriously considered, investors will need to step up.

On that note, here’s an interesting one:

That could be a promising development.