U.S. City Touted as Frontrunner for Next NHL Franchise

The National Hockey League (NHL) has been growing its footprint over recent years. The expansion has proven quite successful, prompting more cities to show interest in welcoming an NHL franchise. This discussion even considers the possible relocation of franchises like the Arizona Coyotes.

Among the aspiring cities, Sacramento, a Californian locale, has recently shown interest. This prospect, however, seems somewhat unconventional considering the three existing California NHL teams: LA Kings, Anaheim Ducks, and San Jose Sharks.

Sacramento Kings' owner, Vivek Ranadivé, currently in talks to buy the Ottawa Senators, has stirred curiosity among NHL insiders and executives. They're left wondering if Sacramento has the potential to become a new hockey market.

Sacramento already houses an arena that can accommodate over 17,000 spectators. Admittedly, introducing a hockey rink would require some infrastructural changes, but this task isn't tremendously difficult considering many arenas already host both NBA and NHL teams.

A significant query emerges regarding the feasibility of introducing more American teams before Canadian markets, such as Quebec, receive their own. Quebec's capacity to support an NHL team is well-known, yet it appears they are being sidelined in favor of U.S. markets, namely Sacramento and Salt Lake City.

It's understandable that the NHL wants to expand, but they should consider all factors before making any impulsive decisions and potentially making many people unhappy in the process.

As Read on MarkerZone - New American City Emerging As Favorite For Next NHL Team