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Gary Bettman gets asked about the Quebec Nordiques

Originally posted on Hockey Unplugged | By Axel Williams | Last updated Oct 2, 2024 10:38 PM ET

Gary Bettman and the NHL have been debating expansion and the potential return of the Quebec Nordiques for years.

Truthfully, it feels like Quebec City has never actually been on the table. Instead, the league wants to look towards American markets that have been left untapped. While expansion is not going to happen anytime soon, there are some people out there who would love to see a return of the Nordiques. After all, they were a team that gives people nostalgia.

Recently, Philip Danault asked Bettman about the league going to Quebec City. However, as he explains, Bettman did not give much of an answer. Instead, he pretty well avoided the conversation entirely. Not surprising at all given Bettman's past comments on the issue.

In fact, it was revealed by Bettman today that the league has no immediate plans to expand. This means even if the league does try to go for 34 teams, it will be a few years before it happens. Perhaps an entire CBA cycle will have to go by before the league goes through with it.

Having said that, the NHL has made it clear that its radar for expansion currently includes places like Houston and Atlanta. It would take a miracle for Quebec to ever be considered ever again. Only time will tell what happens next for the NHL and it 32 teams.

This article first appeared on Hockey Unplugged and was syndicated with permission.

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