NEW YORK — The NHL is exploring expansion to Texas, focusing on Houston or Austin, with a framework agreed upon with billionaire Dan Friedkin and his family.

Commissioner Gary Bettman said Tuesday that the Board of Governors executive committee endorsed the plan for the next six months. The total investment, including an expansion fee and building a new arena, would be $3.5 billion. Discussions initially centered on Houston before Austin joined the conversation.

This move could make the NHL the largest professional sports league in North America. The league last expanded with the Seattle Kraken in 2021.

Oilers make Babcock boss

NEW YORK — The Edmonton Oilers hired Mike Babcock on Tuesday, clearing the way for the polarizing taskmaster to coach his first NHL game in more than six years after the NHL cleared him following an investigation into his aborted 2023 stint in Columbus.

Babcock is now in charge of trying to get Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl a Stanley Cup championship after two of the best hockey players in the league have fallen short over the past 10 seasons.

There have been complaints from former players about Babcock’s approach, including allegations of bullying.