LAS VEGAS -- The National Hockey League Board of Governors today authorized the undertaking of a formal process to evaluate expressions of interest from markets and ownership groups interested in obtaining NHL clubs. To the extent parties may be interested in applying for an expansion team, the League will make applications available starting on Monday, July 6, and applications should be filed no later than Monday, August 10.

"Over the past several years we have received numerous expressions of interest from potential markets and ownership groups that have indicated an interest in joining the National Hockey League. The Board decided today to examine those expressions more formally and also to welcome any other groups or markets that may be considering pursuit of an NHL team," NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said. "The fact that we are beginning this process does not necessarily mean that any expansion teams will be granted as a result of this process."