Atlanta NHL Expansion: Potential Ownership Groups Present Comprehensive Plans for 33rd Team
The NHL is considering expanding to Atlanta and is waiting for a comprehensive plan from potential ownership groups before presenting the proposal to the board of governors. Two groups, Krause Sports and Entertainment and Alpharetta Sports & Entertainment Group, are vying to bring a team to the city. The NHL is open to the idea of adding a 33rd team in Atlanta, but it requires a well-developed plan from the interested parties.
The bids from the two groups involve significant development projects in Forsyth County and Alpharetta, including the construction of NHL-sized arenas. While construction has not yet begun on these projects, the NHL is more focused on the feasibility and details of the proposals. The league is looking for actionable plans that demonstrate a clear path to success for a potential Atlanta expansion team.
Atlanta has a history of NHL teams, with both the Flames and the Thrashers leaving the city in the past. However, the NHL believes that changes in demographics and business opportunities, along with the proposed arena locations, could make a new team successful in Atlanta. The league is considering the potential for expansion and is listening to expressions of interest from various cities and owners, with Atlanta and Houston being the primary focus of attention.
The NHL's deputy commissioner, Bill Daly, emphasized the league's readiness for expansion due to its deep pool of talented players. He believes that adding new franchises at the right time and under the right circumstances will not be a challenge for the NHL. With the potential for growth and the interest from various ownership groups, the NHL is exploring the possibility of expanding its presence in Atlanta and other cities.