Governor Jeff Landry has publicly advocated for the arrival of an NHL hockey team to New Orleans, expressing his support via a social media platform. "It’s time Louisiana has an @NHL Team," declared Landry. "The economic impact would be substantial and having the Stanley Cup in the Big Easy would be a win for all!" Landry's remarks accompany a linked article from NOLA.com referencing an ESPN report about recent discussions at the NHL headquarters concerning the potential team.
In addition to Landry's enthusiasm, NHL reporter Kevin Weekes has to also confirm that a conversation took place between a group interested in establishing the team and NHL executives, including Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly. "In speaking to Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly and other sources involved, I can confirm that there was a recent meeting in NYC with a group expressing their interest in bringing an @NHL expansion team to New Orleans,” Weekes reported. These details were initially brought to light by Weekes and outlined by WGNO.
The groundwork for this sports endeavor was notably referenced last summer by businessman Nic Perkin, who cited the Vegas Golden Knights as a testament to the viability of unconventional hockey markets. “If Las Vegas can stand up a championship hockey team in the middle of the desert, New Orleans can stand up one in the middle of the bayou," Perkin declared during a press conference, as documented by WDSU. This statement was made when Perkin announced the return of minor league hockey to Monroe.
The momentum for this initiative is palpable, with the governor and business champions drawing attention to the sporting and economic upside for New Orleans and the broader region. Moreover, the governor took to social media to emphasize the potential cultural and financial benefits: "Big game today, USA vs. Canada! It’s time Louisiana has an @NHL Team. The economic impact would be substantial and having the Stanley Cup in the Big Easy would be a win for all,” Landry said, as noted by WGNO.
