Georgia Grants Permission for NHL Team Expansion: Could Atlanta See a Return of Hockey?
In a groundbreaking development, The County of Forsyth, Georgia, has given the green light to the Vernon Krause group to file a formal petition for the return of an NHL team to the Atlanta metropolitan region. This news has the potential to significantly reshape the sports landscape in the South.
Multimillion-Dollar Project and Strategic Timing
The ambitious project, which includes the development of an entertainment district in Forsyth County dubbed “Gathering At South Forsthym,” has received unanimous approval. This $3 billion initiative will also encompass residential and hospital developments, and the proposed arena is slated for completion by the 2027-2028 season.
Krause, who leads the expansion bid, has expressed optimism about the project, stating, “We are closer than ever to bringing NHL hockey back to our region. Thank you to everyone who believed in our vision—hockey has its place in Georgia.”
NHL Commissioner Shows Optimism
Even the challenges faced by previous NHL teams in Atlanta, such as the Flames (1972-1980) and Thrashers (1999-2011), have not deterred the league’s willingness to revisit the market. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman has repeatedly indicated interest in Atlanta, noting that the city has evolved into a “different place” in terms of size and sports enthusiasm.
In recent months, Bettman has shown interest in both Atlanta and Houston, in addition to discussing the potential return of the Quebec Nordiques. The NHL has not yet officially launched an expansion process, but cities like Salt Lake City are on the playing field for a 2024-25 season bid.
Historical Context: NHL in Atlanta
The NHL first tried bringing professional hockey to Atlanta in the early 1970s with the Calgary Flames, who relocated to the city in 1972 but returned to Alberta after eight seasons due to lagging ticket sales. The second attempt came in the late 1990s with the Atlanta Thrashers, who struggled similarly and were eventually moved to Winnipeg in 2011.
Why Now?
The economics of sports have shifted significantly since the last attempts, with newer, more robust stadiums and emerging regional sports markets. Atlanta’s largest city, with its growing population and evolving sports culture, could provide an ideal setting for a successful NHL team.
Next Steps
According to Krause, he now has the green light to meet with NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, which could take place within the coming weeks. This meeting is crucial as it could potentially seal the deal for NHL hockey’s return to the Peach State.
The exciting news brings hope to Atlanta’s sports fans and positions the city as a prime candidate for the return of ice hockey. While the project’s ultimate success remains to be seen, it promises a blend of entertainment, residential development, and cutting-edge healthcare facilities that could redefine the region’s infrastructure.
Stay tuned for more updates on Georgia’s potential NHL expansion and how it could transform the sporting landscape in the South.
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