I think this is the best plan for the NHL as a whole with the rejection of Arizona's stadium. They will likely get relocated at this point.

Relocate Arizona to Huston.
An expansion team in Quebec City 2 years after relocation to Huston
An expansion team in Milwaukee 3 years after Quebec expansion

You now touch big cities in Huston, big markets in Milwaukee, and potentially Quebec City, and traditional markets in Quebec City.

Thoughts?