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Hello everyone, and welcome back to The Huddle.
This week’s topic is one that is especially close to my heart.
On June 23, ESPN hockey reporter Emily Kaplan reported there could soon be movement on National Hockey League expansion in Texas, with Austin or Houston potentially beginning the process of landing a franchise.
As someone who has played hockey since I was 3 years old, that news immediately caught my attention. While an NHL team in Austin or Houston may seem far removed from small towns like ours, I believe it could have a bigger impact than many people realize.
One thing I’ve learned while covering sports in Texas is that Texans are passionate about their teams, regardless of the sport. Hockey may not receive the same attention as football, baseball or basketball, but the support is here.
Just look at the Dallas Stars. During recent playoff runs, American Airlines Center has been packed with passionate fans. The energy inside that arena proves hockey has a strong following in Texas.
The state’s hockey roots run even deeper than many people realize. The Houston Aeros won an American Hockey League championship in 2003, while the Texas Stars captured the Calder Cup in 2014. Texas has also produced Stanley Cup champions, including Brian Leetch of Corpus Christi, Blake Coleman of Plano and Seth Jones of Arlington.
Adding another NHL franchise would only continue that momentum.
More interest in hockey means more youth programs, more local leagues and, hopefully, more ice rinks across the state. Kids wouldn’t just have another professional team to cheer for—they would have more opportunities to play the game themselves.
That’s why this news matters, even here.
An NHL expansion team isn’t just about adding another logo to the league. It’s about growing the game in Texas and opening doors for the next generation of players.
Who knows? Maybe one day a kid from one of our small towns will lace up a pair of skates because an NHL team inspired them to give hockey a try. I’d love to see that happen.
