Whether it happens that the NHL sets up shop in Atlanta for a third time remains to be seen. But the league and the owners of its 32 franchises know beyond a doubt that interest is strong.

ATLANTA (AP) — After losing both the Flames and the Thrashers, Atlanta is making a third bid to land an NHL team. Former player Anson Carter announced Tuesday he's heading a group that made a ...

The NHL originally moved into Atlanta in 1972 when the Flames played there until 1980 before moving to Calgary. NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly Getty Images.

Twice in its long history, the NHL has taken a crack at putting a team in Atlanta. First came the Atlanta Flames in 1973, playing at the Omni Coliseum.

Rumours have been swirling for some time of the NHL's impending return to the city of Atlanta, and now one major factor has emerged as the difference maker. NEWSLETTERS Emailed Daily.

NHL teams have twice left Atlanta: The Flames moved to Calgary in 1980, and the Thrashers — doomed in part by mediocre rosters, poor ownership and a misplaced arena — to Winnipeg in 2011.

Atlanta-based Turner, which is paying up to $225M per year, joins ESPN as the NHL’s new U.S. media rightsholders.

Blake Wheeler, former captain of the Winnipeg Jets, announced his retirement from the NHL. He played 1,172 career games in the NHL.

ATLANTA — After losing both the Flames and the Thrashers, Atlanta is making a third bid to land an NHL team. Former player Anson Carter announced Tuesday he's heading a group that made a formal ...