The KHL is expanding in ways that almost makes the NHL’s bold expansion to Las Vegas look modest.
If adding a team in China isn’t enough, what about jolly old England?
The KHL announced that they’ve received “permission” to expand to London.
Here’s the tweet in question:
This aligns well with this report, which uses the phrase “come to terms for their expansion.”
BREAKING - KHL and Great Britian have come to terms for their expansion to UK. Hearing team will be based in London.
— Aivis Kalniņš (@aiviskalnins) July 15, 2016
Puck Daddy’s Greg Wyshynski discusses London as a hockey market, including the following:
But this is also an odd fit for a London franchise. It’s been challenging enough to generate interest for the EIHL, and now you’re asking fans with a tangential-at-best interest in ice hockey to get down with a London vs. Severstal Cherepovets, rivalry, rather than, say, Edinburgh?
Some wonder if the NHL is “missing out” on an opportunity, although there are also logistical concerns.
KHL expansion to London is a great idea in theory. Interested to see how it works out. Travel costs will be high.
— Scott Wheeler (@scottcwheeler) July 15, 2016
Perhaps the NHL could allow the KHL to be something of a guinea pig for higher-level hockey in the UK?
The KHL’s expansion has been aggressive, and it remains to be seen if everything will line up. Quibbles aside, it stands as a great excuse for an expensive hockey journey.