The Stanley Cup has been awarded, new prospects have been drafted, and the recent free-agency period has concluded, signifying the start of expansion season in the NHL. During the NHL Board of Governors' pre-draft meeting in June, plans for cities looking to join the league as it potentially expands to 34 teams were presented. Notably, hockey insider Frank Seravalli indicated that a fresh, intriguing candidate for expansion has emerged, prompting analysis and discussions surrounding the hierarchy of these potential markets.

One of the cities that may come to mind is Indianapolis, despite it not being traditionally associated with hockey. For older fans, the memory of Wayne Gretzky's early career with the WHA's Indianapolis Racers remains significant, as the team played four full seasons at the Market Square Arena before folding in 1978. Following the Racers, the city has seen hockey represented by the IHL's Indianapolis Checkers, and currently, the ECHL's Indy Fuel, who play in Fishers. However, the Fuel's home rink lacks NHL readiness, with a capacity of only 7,500. Additionally, Gainbridge Fieldhouse hosts numerous NBA and WNBA events, making it a less feasible option for an NHL team at this time. While there is potential for hockey in the area, interest from individuals associated with an expansion bid has yet to surface publicly.

Conversely, interest surrounding hockey in New Orleans seems higher, albeit with limited precursors. In March, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry and U.S. Representative Steve Scalise publicly acknowledged conference discussions with the NHL regarding a potential franchise in New Orleans. Landry took to social media, emphasizing the significant economic impact that an NHL team could bring to the city, particularly highlighting the prospect of having the Stanley Cup in what is known as the "Crescent City." However, New Orleans does not possess a rich hockey history, having hosted the ECHL's New Orleans Brass from 1997 to 2002 before the franchise folded following the NBA Pelicans' induction. If a new NHL team were to materialize, it would likely share the Smoothie King Center with the Pelicans, a team that has experienced limited playoff success in recent years, ranking 25th in average attendance during the 2024-25 season.

Austin, Texas, presents another potential market. Historically known for its eccentric culture, Austin is evolving into a technological hub, making it an appealing expansion location according to recent reports. The city's metro population of nearly 2.5 million surpasses that of several existing markets, and hockey interest is supported by the proximity to the AHL's Texas Stars. However, the H-E-B Center, where the Stars play, only accommodates 6,800 fans for hockey events, so a new arena would be necessary for NHL-level competition. The growth in the area certainly indicates that Austin could be a worthy consideration, provided that an adequate venue situation is established.

The NHL's history in Atlanta has been tumultuous, with the departure of the Flames to Calgary in 1980 and the Thrashers relocating to Winnipeg after the 2010-11 season. Both prior franchises were unable to achieve meaningful playoff success, contributing to a cloud of skepticism surrounding future NHL prospects in the city. Recently, Vernon Krause, CEO of Krause Sports and Entertainment, expressed optimism about Atlanta's potential, especially after Forsyth County approved plans for a substantial development project that includes an NHL-ready arena in the northern suburbs. With a focus on stable ownership and a burgeoning market, Krause's plans may align well with NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman's expansion criteria, leaving open the question of whether a third Atlanta franchise could find success.

Houston remains a favored candidate for NHL expansion discussions, often described as a long-overdue addition to the league. The city was previously home to the WHA's Aeros, who enjoyed historical success in the 1970s, yet Houston has not seen a major hockey presence since the NHL's expansion in 1979. Although the city was once viewed as a prime location for team relocation, it has since become a focal point for expansion with billionaire Dan Friedkin actively pursuing opportunities in the NHL. Having gained acclaim as a successful Toyota distributor and recent owner of a Premier League club, Friedkin is reportedly a strong candidate for ownership and has engaged in discussions with league officials about bringing hockey back to Houston. As the NHL considers future markets, the combination of financial backing and community support could position Houston as a compelling contender.