The prospect of adding new teams wasn’t part of the discussions during the NHL’s board of governors meeting this past Wednesday, according to Commissioner Gary Bettman’s post-meeting remarks.
The league’s composition has remained at 32 teams since Seattle joined for the 2021-22 season. Interest exists from groups aiming to establish franchises in locations like Atlanta and Houston, among others.
“There is ongoing interest from numerous locations,” Bettman stated from New York. “However, none of these have progressed to a stage that warrants our focused attention at this juncture.”
When asked if the topic of expansion might be introduced at the upcoming board meeting in December, scheduled to take place in Colorado Springs, Colo., Bettman clarified that the decision isn’t solely within the NHL’s purview.
“If someone expresses their interest, we’ll investigate their proposal and subsequently decide on the appropriate course of action,” Bettman explained.
Among various topics, Bettman voiced apprehension regarding the construction schedule of the primary hockey venue in Milan for the approaching Olympics and indicated that the responsibility lies with the International Olympic Committee.
“Our capacity to act, request, or demand is limited, and should the situation escalate, we will need to address it,” Bettman commented. “However, I won’t speculate, and we have received continuous assurances from both the IOC and the [International Ice Hockey Federation] that everything will proceed as planned.”
NHL salary structure to remain consistent
The salary structure is experiencing unprecedented growth this year and in the years ahead, due to substantial revenue increases. Bettman explicitly refuted speculation about the structure exceeding $104 million US next season.
“There are no adjustments,” Bettman affirmed. “I am aware of circulating rumors regarding discussions about the structure. This is unequivocally false. No such discussions have occurred. The structure remains as previously agreed upon.”
Routine board meeting
Bettman commenced his dialogue with reporters by indicating that there were no significant announcements to make.
“In essence, it was a standard operational meeting,” Bettman stated. “Nothing particularly noteworthy.”
The governors, comprising owners, team presidents, general managers, and other executives, received updates on the league’s condition, hockey operations and officiating, and initiatives aimed at expanding the sport’s global reach.
Bettman stated that he had no updates regarding the ongoing sale of the Pittsburgh Penguins.
As preparations continue for the 2028 World Cup of Hockey, Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly anticipates that 18 cities in North America and 10 in Europe will submit bids to host portions of the event.
When questioned about his future leadership of the NHL, the 73-year-old Bettman responded: “I’m present, and I have no immediate plans to depart. As for the duration, I cannot provide a precise timeframe.”
