government
NHL exploring Texas expansion in Houston or Austin with billionaire Dan Friedkin and family
By Stephen Whyno, Associated Press at KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC)
· June 23, 2026
· 4 min read
The NHL is exploring potential expansion in Texas in either Houston or Austin under an agreement with billionaire Dan Friedkin and his family, Commissioner Gary Bettman said Tuesday.Bettman said the Board of Governors executive committee endorsed a term sheet agreed to with the Friedkins over the...
Key takeaway 5 billion, according to Bettman, who said discussions over the past two years largely revolved around Houston before Austin joined the conversation.
Why this matters in The Pearland
The potential expansion of the NHL to Houston and Austin raises interesting questions for the Pearland community, given its proximity to Houston. If an NHL team were to come to Houston, it could have a significant impact on the local sports landscape, potentially drawing fans from surrounding areas like Pearland. The presence of a professional hockey team could also lead to increased investment in local ice rinks and hockey facilities, which could benefit youth hockey programs in Pearland. Additionally, the economic boost from an NHL team could have a ripple effect on local businesses in Pearland, particularly those that cater to sports fans and families. As the NHL considers expansion, Pearland residents will be watching closely to see how this development could shape the local sports and entertainment scene.
About this story
Original reporting by KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC) . The Pearland surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: government ·
Published: June 23, 2026 ·
Source: KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC) ·
Reading time: 4 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? The NHL is exploring potential expansion in Texas in either Houston or Austin under an agreement with billionaire Dan Friedkin and his family, Commissioner Gary Bettman said Tuesday.Bettman said the Board of Governors executive committee endorsed a term sheet agreed to with the Friedkins over the...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 23, 2026 by KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC) and curated for The Pearland readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Stephen Whyno, Associated Press at KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC). To learn more about how The Pearland selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more government coverage from The Pearland, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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