Gary Bettman has a completely different stance than Bill Daly regarding a return of the Nordiques
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman recently categorically denied rumors about league expansion, despite multiple reports suggesting otherwise.
Journalists like Andy Strickland had claimed that the NHL was close to approving two new franchises. Additionally, Bill Daly, Bettman's right-hand man, had stated that new expansions were "likely" and "imminent" .
- TVA Sports
However, in a recent interview with the Toronto Star, Bettman made it clear that all such reports were "categorically false," emphasizing that no expansion process was currently underway. He added that, aside from an update on interested markets at the next Board of Governors meeting, there was nothing further to announce .
Just a month prior, Bill Daly had mentioned on Sportsnet's 32 Thoughts podcast that the league would eventually begin a process to expand by adding two teams. This statement fueled speculation, with experts and league observers expressing skepticism regarding Bettman's denials. Many believe that expansion plans are indeed in motion, especially in markets such as Houston, Atlanta, and Arizona .
There has also been talk about a possible return of the Quebec Nordiques, particularly if Quebecor's Pierre Karl Péladeau finds strong partners. While this seems unlikely at the moment, Bettman had previously suggested the idea could be revisited.
In summary, while Bettman firmly rejects the notion of imminent expansion, various contradictory statements and ongoing speculation hint that the addition of new NHL teams could happen in the near future.
| POLL | ||
Do you think the Nordiques will ever return to the NHL someday? | ||
| Yes | 43 | 28.1 % |
| No | 110 | 71.9 % |
| List of polls | ||
