Gary Bettman also mentioned the word “Quebec” on Tuesday when he was asked about a potential NHL expansion process during the circuit governors’ meeting, which took place in Seattle.
The commissioner reiterated to reporters that his league is not in expansion mode, as it has been in the past. He did not rule out that scenario, but said it was not part of immediate plans.
Moreover, the subject is not on the agenda for this meeting of governors.
“We regularly listen to those who express interest: Atlanta, Quebec, Houston, Salt Lake City,” said the commissioner. But we do not plan to do the same as in the past in the near future, clarifying that if you are interested in an expansion group, here is the application form and the date of its filling.
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The name of Quebec seems to have provoked a reaction from a journalist present on site. He asked Bettman if the mention of the city was “fair” to fans who have dreamed of the return of the Nordiques for years.
After all, the city long seemed like the perfect plan B for a possible Coyotes move… but it was beaten out by Las Vegas in the 2016 expansion process.
And since then, the possibility of a concession being established in Quebec seems less plausible.
The question seems to put Gary Bettman on the defensive. “I haven’t ranked any cities,” he replied quickly. I’m talking about those who have expressed interest. Don’t talk to me about justice, I’m just answering the question. »
– With the collaboration of Renaud Lavoie
