The Race for Expansion: Which Major North American Sports League Will Be the Next to Expand?
In the fast-evolving world of professional sports, the discussion around expansion and growth is never far from the spotlight. As of August 2023, the National Hockey League (NHL) and the National Basketball Association (NBA) have been frequent topics in discussions about potential expansion. Both leagues have already made significant steps, while other major sports leagues are in the running to follow suit.
The Current Landscape in Major North American Sports Leagues
The NHL recently expanded with the addition of the Seattle Kraken and has discussed potential future franchises in Atlanta and Houston. Meanwhile, the NBA is also considering expansion with cities like Seattle and Las Vegas being strong candidates. While it's challenging to predict definitively which league will expand next, the NBA seems the most likely candidate due to ongoing discussions and interest in new franchises.
Depending on market conditions and financial viability, the NHL may also move towards expansion. Both leagues will continually monitor market interest and revenue capabilities before taking action. Stay tuned for any announcements from both leagues that could signal major changes in the landscape of North American sports.
Major League Soccer and Other Leagues
Among the eleven leagues in eight team sports that can be defined as 'major,' Major League Soccer (MLS) will add its 29th franchise, St. Louis, for the 2023 season. This addition is the first committed plan for 2023. St. Louis City SC, based in New Centene Stadium on Market, is preparing for their first season in MLS Next Pro this year.
The Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) and the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) have committees to develop expansion proposals, but only St. Louis City SC secured their spot in MLS.
During their recent league championship series, the National Lacrosse League announced that Las Vegas will become the league's 15th franchise, beginning play in December 2022. The Chicago Hounds will become the 12th club in Major League Rugby the following February.
The Potential for NHL Expansion
Given the recent expansion of the NHL, it is highly likely that the league will continue its growth. The 2017/18 season marked the entry of the Las Vegas Vegas Golden Knights, a franchise that made a significant impact with an impressive first season, including a berth in the Stanley Cup Finals.
Expansion in the NHL is currently in the works with bids from Quebec and Seattle. Both have already paid to secure a place in the league, and it's expected that Seattle will receive a team for the 2020/21 season. However, a group in my area, hoping to secure a team in Hamilton, faces hurdles due to its proximity to Toronto Maple Leafs and Buffalo Sabres.
The Hamilton bid, while more reserved in its approach compared to the successful Jim Balsille model, has been in the works for nearly a decade. The group will not proceed until they are guaranteed a team. This level of commitment and historical context makes the NHL expansion to Hamilton a compelling story in the ongoing race for expansion in North American sports.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
The journey of expansion in North American sports is full of uncertainties, and the leagues mentioned above, especially the NHL and NBA, continue to move forward in their expansion plans. Investors, cities, and fans all play critical roles in determining the future landscape of these leagues.
Stay updated with the latest announcements and developments to follow the exciting journey of expansion as it unfolds in the competitive world of professional sports.