The Stanley Cup has been awarded, recent drafts have introduced a new generation of potential stars, and the latest wave of free-agent negotiations has concluded. This marks the beginning of expansion discussions within the NHL. Plans for prospective expansion cities were presented to the league's board of governors during its pre-draft meeting in June. Notably, rumors have emerged surrounding a captivating new candidate for NHL expansion, prompting an examination of potential locations from least to most deserving.

Historically, Indiana might not be the first state to come to mind when discussing hockey. However, fans may recall that Wayne Gretzky began his professional career with the WHA's Indianapolis Racers, who played four seasons at the now-demolished Market Square Arena before ceasing operations in 1978. Just prior to the franchise's closure, Gretzky was traded to the Edmonton Oilers. Since then, hockey in Indianapolis has primarily been represented by the IHL's Indianapolis Checkers and currently the ECHL's Indy Fuel, who play their home games in Fishers, Indiana. Nevertheless, the Fuel's arena has a capacity of only 7,500, and Gainbridge Fieldhouse, located downtown, hosts a multitude of NBA and WNBA events. Consequently, securing an NHL team in Indianapolis does not appear to be a current priority.

New Orleans has been generating interest in hockey, though there is limited substantive development. In March, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry and U.S. Representative Steve Scalise publicly acknowledged a conference call with the NHL regarding the possibility of bringing a franchise to the city. However, specifics remain vague, apart from Landry's social media statements highlighting the positive economic impact that hosting an NHL team could bring to New Orleans. 'The economic impact would be substantial,' he noted on February 20, coinciding with the 4 Nations Face-Off title game between the U.S. and Canada, 'and having the Stanley Cup in the Big Easy would be a win for all!' Yet, the city lacks a significant hockey legacy, having previously hosted the ECHL's New Orleans Brass from 1997 to 2002, who disbanded following the establishment of the NBA's New Orleans Pelicans. A potential new NHL team would likely share the Smoothie King Center with the Pelicans, who have struggled historically, averaging 16,815 fans per game in the 2024-25 season, ranking 25th in attendance among 30 teams.

Austin, Texas, once recognized for its eccentricity, is now establishing itself as a hub of technology and startup culture, potentially appealing to the NHL's expansion interests. With a metropolitan population nearing 2.5 million, Austin's size rivals that of some existing NHL cities. Additionally, the presence of the AHL's Texas Stars, an affiliate of the Dallas Stars, highlights an emerging hockey culture in the region. The Texas Stars play at the H-E-B Center in Cedar Park, approximately 20 miles north of Austin. However, their current arena's capacity of 6,800 falls short of NHL standards, indicating that construction of a larger facility would be essential for the city to be considered a viable candidate for expansion.

The NHL's history in Atlanta has been tumultuous, with the Flames relocating to Calgary following the 1979-80 season and the Thrashers moving to Winnipeg after the 2010-11 season. Despite a lack of playoff success during their time in Atlanta, with a combined record of 2-15 in postseason appearances, interest in a third NHL franchise in the city persists. Vernon Krause, CEO of Krause Sports and Entertainment, plans to build an NHL-ready arena in Forsyth County, with the endorsement of hockey legend Bobby Orr as an adviser. According to Seravalli, the NHL's requirements for expansion under Commissioner Gary Bettman emphasize the need for stable ownership, a suitable arena, and a growing market—all seemingly met by Krause's plans. The lingering question remains whether another attempt at expansion in Atlanta would benefit the NHL.

Houston is frequently regarded as a prime candidate for NHL expansion, given its rich hockey history. The city was home to the WHA's Aeros, who won two titles and featured hockey great Gordie Howe during his comeback. The city has been overlooked in previous expansion discussions but has recently re-emerged as a potential market. Billionaire Dan Friedkin, known for his success as a Toyota distributor and involvement in professional sports, has expressed interest in bringing an NHL team to Houston. Reports indicate that Friedkin's group has met with the NHL on several occasions concerning Houston's expansion prospects. As speculation continues, many believe that the establishment of an NHL franchise in Houston could revitalize the city's hockey scene and capitalize on its growing sports market.