Portland would be a no-brainer and a perfect rival for the Canucks and Sockeyes (Seattle). However, the ownership of the NBA’s Trail Blazers seems to feel that the NHL would be unwelcome competition for their club. Until that is resolved, no NHL in the Rose City. Houston would be an excellent candidate, especially given that there are heavyweights on the Board of Governors (including Bruins owner Jeremy Jacobs) who have made it clear they want Houston in. But again, the ownership of the local NBA franchise appears to be worried about the NHL competing for fan support in the same building. Quebec City is unlikely to get an expansion team, even though the building is ready and waiting. The market’s best (only) hope is relocation. I still believe one of the Coyotes or Hurricanes will be coming north when the relocation clauses in their leases expire. Kansas City would also be a good choice. The Sprint Center is an excellent facility, and there is clearly local enthusiasm to get NHL hockey back. And no NBA team to compete for winter fan support. However, there is no obvious candidate to actually own a franchise.
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