Anson Carter Spearheads Effort for NHL Expansion Team in Atlanta

Former NHL player Anson Carter and the Alpharetta Sports & Entertainment Group have formally requested the NHL to consider Atlanta for a new expansion franchise.

Anson Carter, fronting the Alpharetta Sports & Entertainment Group, has formally requested the NHL to start an expansion process for Atlanta, aiming to bring a franchise to the city for the third time.
The proposed arena, designed by architect Frank Gehry, will be part of a larger development at the North Point Mall site in Alpharetta, about 30 minutes from where the Thrashers used to play.
Atlanta previously hosted the NHL with the Flames (1972-1980) and the Thrashers (1999-2011), both of which relocated. This marks a third attempt to establish a franchise in the area.
NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly expressed optimism about Atlanta's potential for an NHL team, citing changed market demographics and the importance of the rink's location.
Other cities, including Salt Lake City and Houston, have also shown interest in obtaining an NHL expansion team, with the league currently having 32 teams.