Local Atlanta-Region County Greenlights New Ice Arena in Bid to Attract National Hockey League Franchise
Hitting the Rink in Atlanta Again?
The NHL is pondering another go at the peach state, with whispers of an Atlanta team resurfacing after two previous failed attempts. But what's different this time around?
Atlanta, the city that once birthed and bid adieu to the Flames and the Thrashers, could soon see the return of NHL hockey, thanks to Forsyth County giving the green light to a $3 billion mixed-use project named The Gathering at South Forsyth. This project will feature an NHL-worthy arena.
As per Vernon Krause, CEO of Krause Sports and Entertainment, the driving force behind the project, "We're closer than we've ever been to bringing NHL hockey back to our region." He acknowledged the determination to bring the sport to the heart of Georgia, stating he remains "very confident."
But what makes Atlanta ripe for a third attempt at NHL stardom?
For starters, the new arena in a suburb, unlike the previous Atlanta arenas that were downtown, could cater better to the majority of hockey enthusiasts who reside outside the city center. The strategy mirrors the Florida Panthers, who roamed from Miami for a more suburban Sunrise, Florida back in the day.
That said, every market differs. The Ottawa Senators, for instance, are still set on a downtown arena despite their current suburb setting.
Now, in favor of Atlanta, the NHL already has a soft spot in the city, thanks to TNT - a broadcasting partner - producing its studios from Atlanta.
Moreover, Atlanta's market growth and resilient interest in hockey could be compelling reasons to give the city a third chance. The region's growth since the Thrashers' departure has transformed it into a more prosperous city, potentially attracting a larger fanbase and better finances for a new franchise. Additionally, the proposed development, with its cutting-edge arena and mixed-use facilities, seems primed to draw crowds and generate economic prosperity.
All these factors, when combined with new ownership, a shifting expansion strategy, and bolstered community interest, could make Atlanta the next big NHL market. Why not, huh? Let's see if the puck drops for Atlanta once again. (Just a friendly reminder, it's all speculation at this point, and there's no official announcement yet.) 🏒🏒🏒
The proposed development in Atlanta, featuring an NHL-worthy arena, could potentially attract a new hockey franchise, bringing sports excitement back to the peach state, specifically hockey, in the form of NHL. With the city's resilient interest in the sport and a more suburban location for the arena, it seems Atlanta is showing promise for a third attempt at NHL stardom.
