Return of the Nordiques: Gary Bettman sends a very clear response
The issue of the return of the Nordiques has been dragging on for a decade, but Gary Bettman has never seemed to really prioritize this market.
It is disappointing and frustrating, given that Quebec City is a hockey town and has proven it time and again by filling the Centre Videotron for a junior team.
According to Quebec's Premier, François Legault, Pierre Karl Péladeau and Quebecor must absolutely find financial partners to present a strong offer to Bettman and the NHL.
During a press conference on Saturday evening, ahead of the Stanley Cup Final, Bettman was questioned about future expansions and the possible return of the Nordiques.
Although rumors suggest that four new teams could emerge by 2029, the commissioner is keeping everyone in suspense.
«No expansion plans for the NHL at the moment, according to Gary Bettman. Status quo for now at 32 teams.
However, we are listening to the interest of half a dozen markets.»
Patrick Friolet
If the NHL indeed expands to 36 teams, there must absolutely be one in Quebec. Félix Séguin clearly asked Gary if it was possible, and the response was so cold you could skate on it.
«Gary Bettman, clearly did not want to talk about the possibility of a team returning to Quebec on Saturday evening.
In an interview with Félix Séguin before the first game of the Stanley Cup Final, the NHL's big boss was very brief in his responses regarding Quebec City.
�No news [on that topic],' he simply replied.» - TVA Sports
Clearly, Bettman does not want to discuss a topic that has been making headlines for a long time. It is really a shame.
Therefore, there are six teams in contention for expansion. We obviously think of Quebec, Houston, Atlanta, Kansas City, Arizona, and another unknown market.
POLL |
Do you think the NHL will actually expand to 36 teams or more, including or excluding the Nordiques? |
Yes | 216 | 51.3 % |
No | 205 | 48.7 % |
List of polls |
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