For now, the NHL has disputed reports that the league plans to expand to Las Vegas, Seattle, Quebec City and add a second team in Toronto by 2017. Let's assume otherwise.
Expansion is a way of generating free money for existing NHL owners. The NHL expanded by four teams from 1998-2000, adding Nashville, Atlanta, Minnesota and Columbus. Each paid an $80 million franchise fee, allowing the league to distribute nearly $12.5 million to each existing club.

http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nhl.../14739931/

I believe a 2 conference/4 division / 8 team format for 32 total teams is the best route for the NHL and they could use more western cities.

I really wish that Salt Lake City was in line for an NHL team.

Wisconsin needs a team...

The #5 team in merchandise sales is the Hartford Whalers, and they haven't existed since 1997(?).

Hockey succeeded in Hartford. The team just didn't have the luxury boxes to generate enough revenue. If a stadium was built, they'd easily get 15K per game, probably more.

But that would cannibalize the UConn hockey program, which just joined Hockey East. So I probably don't want an NHL team in Hartford.

I'd still love to see one in KC. It's about the only way I'll ever see an NHL game in person. Until then, I'm stuck watching the Wichita Thunder as they transition into the ECHL.

I know, the odds of KC ever getting one are slim, but it's all I have to hold on to.