Houston is one of the largest cities in the United States without an NHL team, and hockey fans have long debated what a potential franchise should be called. With a rich sports culture and a history of professional hockey, Houston is a prime candidate for NHL expansion. But if the NHL comes to Houston, what should the team name be? Let’s explore the best potential Houston NHL team names, the history behind them, and how to generate a perfect name for a future franchise.
Why Houston Deserves an NHL Team
The Case for an NHL Team in Houston
Houston is an ideal location for an NHL expansion or relocation due to:
- Large Market – Houston is the fourth-largest city in the U.S. and has a strong sports fanbase.
- Successful Sports Franchises – With teams like the Texans, Astros, and Rockets, Houston has proven its ability to support major professional teams.
- Hockey History – The city previously had the Houston Aeros, a successful minor league team.
- Existing Arena – The Toyota Center, home of the Houston Rockets, could be an NHL venue.
What to Consider When Choosing a Houston NHL Team Name
A Great NHL Team Name Should:
- Reflect Houston’s Identity – The name should connect to the city’s culture, industry, or history.
- Be Unique and Marketable – A strong name will make the team stand out and attract fans.
- Sound Tough & Competitive – Hockey is a fast-paced, hard-hitting sport, so the name should match that energy.
- Have Local Significance – Houston’s ties to space exploration, energy, and history should be considered.
Best Potential Houston NHL Team Names
Space-Themed Houston NHL Team Names
- Houston Cosmos – A nod to Houston’s role in space exploration.
- Houston Orbiters – Inspired by NASA’s space shuttles.
- Houston Astronauts – Honors the astronauts trained at Johnson Space Center.
- Houston Rockets (Hockey Edition) – While the name is taken by the NBA team, it remains iconic.
- Houston Comets – Previously used for the WNBA team, but a perfect space-related hockey name.
Oil & Energy-Themed Houston NHL Team Names
- Houston Drillers – Represents the city’s oil industry and sounds aggressive.
- Houston Gushers – Inspired by Texas oil booms.
- Houston Roughnecks – A nod to oil field workers.
- Houston Wildcatters – A reference to independent oil prospectors.
- Houston Torches – Symbolizing the city’s energy sector.
Animal & Nature-Themed Houston NHL Team Names
- Houston Mustangs – Wild and powerful, perfect for a hockey team.
- Houston Thunderbirds – A strong, mythical bird with ties to Native American folklore.
- Houston Copperheads – A venomous snake found in Texas, making for an intimidating team name.
- Houston Armadillos – A uniquely Texas animal, though maybe not the most fearsome choice!
- Houston Stallions – Evokes strength, speed, and power.
Historic & Cultural Houston NHL Team Names
- Houston Aeros – A revival of the city’s former hockey team name.
- Houston Apollos – Honors both NASA’s Apollo program and Houston’s sports history.
- Houston Outlaws – A reference to Texas’ Wild West past.
- Houston Wranglers – Ties into the cowboy and rodeo culture.
- Houston Marshals – Represents law enforcement and Old West Texas themes.
How to Create Your Own Houston NHL Team Name
Steps to Generate a Unique Name
- Identify a Key Theme – Space, energy, animals, history, or sports references?
- Use Houston’s Identity – Incorporate city-related terms like “Space City” or “Bayou.”
- Make It Fierce & Competitive – Choose words that evoke power, speed, and determination.
- Check for Uniqueness – Ensure the name isn’t already in use by another major team.
- Test It with Fans – See how hockey fans react to the potential name choices!
Examples of Custom Name Combinations
- If you want a space-themed name: “Houston Meteors”
- If you love Texas culture: “Houston Wranglers”
- If you want something intimidating: “Houston Vipers”
- If you prefer history-based names: “Houston Apollos”
- If you like a unique animal theme: “Houston Thunderbirds”
FAQs
Has Houston ever had an NHL team?
No, but Houston has had successful hockey teams like the Houston Aeros in the WHA and AHL.
What is the most likely name for a Houston NHL team?
Names like Houston Aeros, Apollos, or Roughnecks could be strong contenders based on the city’s history.
Could the Houston Aeros return as an NHL team?
Possibly! The Aeros name has deep ties to Houston hockey history and remains a fan favorite.
Does Houston have an arena for an NHL team?
Yes, the Toyota Center could host an NHL team, though modifications may be needed.
When could Houston get an NHL team?
There’s no official timeline, but Houston is frequently mentioned as a potential expansion city.
If the NHL expands to Houston, the team name should reflect the city’s identity, history, and energy. Whether space-themed, oil-inspired, or Texas tough, the perfect name will make Houston’s hockey team stand out. What do you think the Houston NHL team should be called?