The world of professional hockey is buzzing with speculation, as whispers of a new chapter for the National Hockey League grow louder with each passing day. Fans and insiders alike have been on high alert, eagerly awaiting any hint of where the league might set its sights next. Now, a recent statement from NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman has sent shockwaves through the hockey community, reigniting conversations about expansion and the league’s ongoing quest to tap into new markets.

For years, the NHL has explored opportunities to grow its footprint, eyeing cities that could bring fresh energy and passionate fan bases to the sport. While many names have surfaced in the rumor mill, few have sparked as much intrigue—and debate—as one particular city that has a complicated history with the league. With new reports surfacing from respected journalists and hints dropped by league officials, the possibility of hockey returning to a familiar yet controversial destination feels more real than ever.

As the dust settles from the commissioner’s latest remarks, questions abound: Is the league truly ready to revisit old ground? What makes this city different now? And could a third chance finally be the charm? The answers may be closer than anyone expects.

Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images

We have an update regarding the next expansion process coming to the National Hockey League, and it comes directly from Gary Bettman.

It comes from renowned journalist Chris Johnston, who directly quotes Commissioner Bettman.

“Gary Bettman says there’s interest in potential NHL expansion to Atlanta, but no timetable.”

In his statement, he specifically names the city of Atlanta. Wow.

Gary Bettman Confirms, Exclusively, That There Is Real Interest in a New Expansion Team in Atlanta

Clearly, this is a market being given several new chances.

As Johnston mentions, everything indicates that the National Hockey League will eventually return to Atlanta.

For Bettman to speak like this, it means something is brewing because he is always extremely cautious with his statements.

And unlike Quebec City, Bettman is not closing the door on Atlanta.

It would be a third chance for this city, after two relocations and two failures, which is quite incredible.

A plot of land that was just purchased in Atlanta is also sparking a lot of curiosity:

TVA Sports also provides more details in its article.

These two failures don’t mean anything at this point, said the commissioner, who was speaking on the sidelines of Game 3 of the Maple Leafs-Panthers series, in Sunrise.

“(Atlanta) is a different place than where the Flames and Thrashers left, in terms of the city’s size, its strength, and the interest in sports,” said the 72-year-old man.

Via TVA Sports

I find it hard to believe that things could have changed so much in just over 10 years, but it feels like we’re about to get our answer.

A story to follow in the coming weeks.