Indianapolis may be eager to join the National Hockey League, but is the feeling mutual?
In the wake of a report that Indy has strong interest in joining the NHL, league commissioner Gary Bettman joined the “Pat McAfee Show” on Tuesday and poured some cool water at the prospect — not just for Indianapolis, but for any prospective newcomer.
The report in the Daily Faceoff named Austin, Texas, Atlanta, Houston and New Orleans as other cities that have expressed interest in joining the 32-team league.
Bettman also named Cincinnati and Quebec City as expressing interest. However, the league will take its time, he said.
What NHL commissioner Gary Bettman said about expansion in Indianapolis
“This list goes on and on. We’re not focusing on expanding right now,” Bettman said. “I’m not going to issue an edict that says, ‘If you want an expansion team, file your application by this date,'” he said.
What will it cost for an NHL expansion team?
Bettman said the league will look at four key factors in considering potential additions: Ownership, market, arena and “what does it do to make the league stronger.”
Indianapolis is a smaller market among big-league teams, but have healthy NBA and NFL franchises. Few cities support their teams better than Indy.
No well-heeled hockey supporter has emerged to lead an effort that the league says would cost $2 billion.
“I’m not pressuring anybody. I’m not giving deadlines. If it’s going to be right, it’ll be right. And if we wait a while … that’s OK, too,” Bettman said
Gary Bettman on the state of the NHL
“Our 32 teams have never been healthier, never been better owned, never been more supported by their fans.”
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: NHL commissioner Gary Bettman talks expansion with Pat McAfee. Could Indianapolis get a team?
Reporting by Scott Horner, Indianapolis Star / Indianapolis Star
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
