When it comes to major sports franchises in the United States, hockey fans may be surprised to learn that the largest metro area without an NHL team is Houston, Texas. With a population of over 7 million people, Houston is the fourth most populous city in the country and the largest metro area without a professional hockey team.

Despite its size and passionate sports fanbase, Houston has yet to secure an NHL franchise. The city has shown interest in bringing a team to the area, with discussions and proposals being made over the years, but as of now, no team has made its home in Houston.

However, that may soon change as there have been recent talks of potential expansion or relocation of a team to Houston. The city's strong economy, diverse population, and thriving sports culture make it an attractive market for the NHL.

While Houston may not currently have an NHL team, the city does have a rich hockey history. The Houston Aeros were a successful minor league team that played in the city for many years before relocating to Des Moines, Iowa in 2013. The Aeros were beloved by fans and helped foster a love of hockey in the Houston area.

For now, Houston hockey fans can still enjoy the sport by supporting the local minor league teams or by attending NHL games in nearby cities such as Dallas or Nashville. But many are hopeful that it won't be long before Houston finally gets its own NHL team to call its own.

For more information on the NHL and potential expansion teams, visit the official NHL website at NHL.com. To stay updated on the latest sports news and rumors in Houston, check out the Houston Chronicle's sports section.

In conclusion, while Houston may be the largest metro area in the United States without an NHL team, there is hope on the horizon for hockey fans in the city. With its size, passion for sports, and history of hockey, Houston is a prime candidate for an NHL franchise in the near future.

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