NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman acknowledged on Friday that there’s ‘interest’ in bringing professional hockey back to Atlanta, though no timetable has been set for potential expansion.
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Gary Bettman says there’s ‘interest’ in potential NHL expansion to Atlanta, but no timetable
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Key Takeaways:
- NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman stated there’s ‘interest’ in expanding the NHL to Atlanta.
- No timetable has been established for this potential expansion.
- Bettman believes Atlanta is ‘a different place than when the Flames and the Thrashers left.’
- Bettman’s comments were made on Friday.
- The possibility of the NHL’s return to Atlanta has sparked renewed discussions.
Bettman Acknowledges Interest in Atlanta Expansion
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman has revealed that there’s ‘interest’ in potentially expanding the National Hockey League to Atlanta. Speaking on Friday, Bettman addressed the prospect of bringing professional hockey back to the city, though he emphasized that no timetable has been set.
A ‘Different Place’ Than When Teams Left
“I think it’s a different place than when the Flames and the Thrashers left,” Bettman remarked, alluding to Atlanta’s history with NHL teams. His comment suggests that the city’s landscape has changed since the departures of its former franchises, potentially making it a more viable market for the league today.
No Timetable for Expansion
Despite acknowledging the interest, Bettman was clear that there are no immediate plans for expansion. The commissioner did not provide specific details or a schedule, indicating that discussions are still in the exploratory stages.
Renewed Discussions Among Fans
Bettman’s statements have reignited discussions among hockey fans and observers about the NHL’s future in Atlanta. The possibility of the league returning to the city has generated excitement, as supporters contemplate the impact of a new team.
Conclusion
While the interest in bringing the NHL back to Atlanta has been confirmed by Commissioner Bettman, the absence of a set timetable means that fans will have to wait for further developments. Bettman’s acknowledgement marks a significant step in the conversation about the league’s expansion and Atlanta’s potential role in it.
