DALLAS — With the future of the American Airlines Center still uncertain, the Dallas Stars are reportedly exploring possible new homes, including suburban cities such as Plano, Frisco, The Colony, Arlington and Fort Worth.

What You Need To Know

The team has called American Airlines Center home for 24 years, but the Dallas Morning News reports the Stars are exploring relocation options in North Texas

As of now, Dallas has only two of its four major sports franchises still playing within city limits

Stars CEO Brad Alberts told The Dallas Morning News the organization would need to decide on a new site within six to eight months to have a new arena ready by 2031

The news comes just as hockey season gets underway — and with it, high expectations from fans.

“Stars will make a run for sure again this season,” said Dallas Stars fan Jason Hicks.

“We’re going to take it all this year,” added fellow fan Matthew “Texas Outlaw” Hendrix.

The team has called American Airlines Center home for 24 years, but the Dallas Morning News reports the Stars are exploring relocation options in North Texas.

“There’s a reason we’re called the Dallas Stars. We’re right there in Dallas,” Hendrix said.

As of now, Dallas has only two of its four major sports franchises still playing within city limits. With the Mavericks also considering a move to Irving, city leaders say keeping professional teams in Dallas remains a priority.

“I think it’s essential for the health of us and also, I think, the viability of the teams — that they have a presence here,” said Dallas City Council member Chad West, who is also the chairman of the ad hoc Committee on Professional Sports Recruitment and Retention. 

The potential move comes as surrounding cities compete to attract professional sports teams. 

The UFL’s Arlington Renegades recently rebranded back to Dallas and announced plans to relocate to Frisco’s Toyota Stadium.

“And that you have a proven track record and you have a city that is used to, you know, it’s kind of built into their DNA to be involved, to go to sporting events. It’s not a one-off,” said Jimmy Smith, COO and CFO of FC Dallas.

Stars CEO Brad Alberts told The Dallas Morning News the organization would need to decide on a new site within six to eight months to have a new arena ready by 2031.

“And the Stars are looking at all the best options out there, um, and we need to do our part to come to the table and bring them a package that will keep them here in the city of Dallas,” West said.

Whether the team stays or moves elsewhere, fans say their support won’t waver.

“I see the Stars being contenders for the next seven to eight years,” Hendrix said.

“You need to get these boys excited and back to the playoffs and get that championship run,” Hicks added.