The NHL's expansion into Houston and Atlanta is a significant development, potentially reshaping the league's landscape. With a 34-team structure, the focus shifts to divisional realignments and expansion drafts. The simplest approach is to place Houston in the Central Division and Atlanta in the Atlantic, maintaining conference balance but creating an imbalanced division. However, the league's desire to expand further suggests a return to six divisions with five to six teams each, a format last seen in the 2012-13 season. This format could be a strategic move to accommodate future growth. The 84-game season, with its balanced schedule, is well-suited for this scenario. Expansion drafts, a rare occurrence since 2000, will be crucial for new teams like the Senators, who may lose players like Tyler Kleven. The protection list for the Senators, based on a hypothetical draft, highlights the strategic considerations for general managers. As the NHL expands, it aims to tap into new markets, driven by financial growth, and the future of the league's structure remains an intriguing topic for fans and stakeholders alike.
