With both the Vegas Golden Knights and Seattle Kraken being extremely profitable and successful, it was only a matter of time before the league would expand again. With the unusual situation happening in the desert of Arizona, the NHL has been exploring multiple possible locations. It seems like the league may have finally reached a decision on a possible destination for the next team.
Houston, Kansas City, Quebec City and Salt Lake City have all been viewed as potential markets for the next team. Today though it appears that Salt Lake City has emerged as a heavy favorite. According to Hockey Blogger, Eklund the league is apparently zeroed in on a possible move that could see a team in Salt Lake City, sooner rather than later.
The Utah market has already proved that they have the ability to support a major sports team, having supported both the Utah Jazz and Real Salt Lake of the MLS. Utah also offers, and possibly most importantly, Ryan Smith, the owner of the Utah Jazz who has already expressed interest in purchasing an NHL team. Smith has a nearly 2 billion dollar net worth, which is extremely appealing to the NHL.
If the NHL does the make the decision to either locate or expand, Salt Lake City is a real possibility, especially with an NHL quality building already in place.
