Expansion

 So, with the talk of the NHL expanding to Houston and Atlanta I thought I'd bring this up. What I dislike about the NHL returning to Atlanta is because they already lost two teams, and it hasn't been effective in that area whatsoever. 

Although, I am completely on board with NHL coming to Houston. Reason for that is not only because I love to see the NHL grow, but I find Houston can not only support an NHL team, but they can make it last. I would call them The Houston Aeros as a tribute to their WHA, IHL, and AHL teams; similar if the NHL went to San Diego I can only agree with them being called the 'San Diego Gulls.' 

The obvious answer is Quebec should get a team. But if Quebec doesn't get a team, I say give them PWHL because it'll be somewhere with a passionate fanbase where they can also be top-tier for girls hockey being the first place in the world to do so. That would be one giant step for hockey.

As for the Coyotes, I am happy to see them return if they get the right owner (I predict Auston Matthews is part of the next ownership group). But the thing was, I was happy for that franchise to be relocated to Utah considering it looks like a true hockey team rather than seeing players who were super talented on an unmotivated team. Utah is going in the right direction if you ask me!

Anyway, it's likely not going to be Quebec as they always get pushed to the side when expansion talks happens. But I think they should. These would be my ten picks that aren't Quebec or Houston.

1. Saskatoon - Saskatoon, along with the province could support an NHL team like it's nothing and I believe if they expand there they will have the best fans in the NHL giving Montreal, Toronto, Edmonton and Winnipeg a run for their money. Only downside to Saskatoon is not just the arena, but they'd have trouble attracting talent to that city. 

2. Hamilton - Always talk of a second team coming to Toronto. I mean, Hamilton isn't Toronto, but it's pretty much connected. I see it like New York having two teams or LA having two teams. Now, the Clippers and Lakers shared what was known as Staples Centre. But sharing ACC wouldn't be ideal, also it gives each fan two sides similar to Rangers/Islanders fans. But I find the distance from Hamilton is a perfect distance from Toronto for another hockey team to be there. 

3. Halifax - If they build a big enough arena, I think they'd have no problem filling that barn each night. It also brings fans from Newfoundland in considering it's quite a ways away from Montreal, and also builds a great rivalry for the Bruins. 

4. Milwaukee - They support the Badgers Hockey more than their own AHL team. I personally believe if they were to get a hockey team they'd have some of the best fans. 

5. Portland - The Moda is a large enough arena and it's ready for NHL hockey. Great infrastructure and 

6. Kansas City - Kansas City is low-key one of the best sports towns up with Philly and Boston where they support their teams win or lose. They have the arena for it as well which makes the move smooth like butter. 

7. Austin - Austin has been the fastest growing city in America, and their biggest sports team is a soccer team. Like Vegas, if Austin gets a hockey team it'd be a giant step forward for the NHL. Sure, you could say NBA, but San Antonio is not far away which covers the debate of NBA to Austin -- not ruling it out. 

8. San Diego - No rush for it, but I think San Diego would be another great place considering it takes forever to get to the closest arena for one hockey game which is in Anaheim. But it also makes for a great rivalry for the Ducks/Kings/Sharks.

9. Indianapolis - Like Milwaukee, close to Chicago but the fans aren't as great or in a hurry for NHL. I think if they want NHL they should see how they support an AHL team. Also, don't think fans can support both the Colts and Pacers.

10. Omaha - It'd be one giant step for the game, but I think they need to build a better infrastructure in Omaha first. But if it's all said and done, I believe they'll have amazing fans. 

HM: St. John's, Newfoundland - I know it's a long-shot, but I'd love to see that. 

I find the NHL is bringing hockey to cities that players want to play in rather than not. It irks me because it's a mans game where you work hard to achieve. 

I personally love the expansion because it shows us other NHL talents given good opportunities such as William Karlsson and Jonathan Marchessault being cornerstone players in Vegas's first year. 

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