[Ry1997]

In a groundbreaking move that will reshape professional hockey, the National Hockey League (NHL) has officially welcomed seven former World Hockey Association (WHA) teams into its ranks. This merger, finalized after months of negotiations, sees the Hartford Whalers, Quebec Nordiques, Edmonton Oilers, and Winnipeg Jets, Cincinnati Stingers, Birmingham Bulls, and Houston Aeros join NHL in a historic expansion.


The NHL-WHA "merger" had been long discussed, with NHL owners initially hesitant to welcome the rival league’s franchises. However, economic pressures and the undeniable talent pool in the WHA forced the NHL to reconsider. After years of negotiations, the deal was finally struck, allowing seven teams to join the NHL under strict conditions.

Much like the agreement made in the original four-team deal, these new franchises were required to pay a $6 million expansion fee. Additionally, WHA clubs were only permitted to retain up to four players from their previous rosters before entering the expansion draft, ensuring a level playing field as they integrated into the NHL.