Articles / Atlanta group eying NHL expansion has $3 billion arena construction approved

Atlanta group eying NHL expansion has $3 billion arena construction approved

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Daily Faceoff
Jun 12, 2025 2:18 PM

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The NHL has officially approved the construction of a new $3 billion arena complex in Atlanta, paving the way for the potential return of the Atlanta Thrashers. This decision marks a significant milestone for hockey in the region, which lost the Thrashers to Winnipeg in 2011. The proposed arena will not only house the NHL franchise but will also include various entertainment and retail spaces that aim to attract both hockey fans and the general public.

Local officials and hockey enthusiasts are optimistic about the impact this new development will have on reviving the city’s hockey culture. The new complex is expected to host a variety of events beyond hockey, including concerts and other sporting activities, ensuring that it becomes a central hub for entertainment in Atlanta.

Key figures in the community, including former NHL players, have expressed their support for the project. They believe that having an NHL team back in Atlanta can stimulate local interest in hockey and create new opportunities for youth hockey programs. The Atlanta Thrashers’ potential re-establishment would not only enrich the city's sports landscape but also honor the legacy of hockey that once thrived in the South.

As construction begins, fans will be watching closely to see how the NHL navigates the logistical challenges of expansion and re-establishment in a city that has had a complex relationship with professional hockey. The excitement in Atlanta is palpable, and as the arena's opening date draws closer, many are hopeful for a triumphant return of the Thrashers as they join the ranks of teams in the NHL once again.