The Houston Aeros hold a significant place in hockey history, particularly in Texas. Although the team no longer exists, its legacy remains, and there have been recent discussions about the potential return of an NHL team to Houston. There have been two iterations of the Houston Aeros, one from 1972 to 1978 and another from 1994 to 2013.

World Hockey Association (1972-1978)

In the early 1970s, the World Hockey Association (WHA) emerged as a challenger to the established National Hockey League (NHL). Paul Deneau, an architect, secured a WHA franchise for Dayton, Ohio, in 1971, naming it the Dayton Arrows. However, due to the lack of a suitable arena and limited local interest, Deneau moved the team to Houston, Texas. Spotting an AeroMexico jet, Deneau renamed the team the Houston Aeros, recognizing the city's ties to the aerospace industry.

The Aeros began playing in the Sam Houston Coliseum in 1972. Bill Dineen was hired as the coach and general manager and built a strong team with experienced players. In their inaugural season, the Aeros finished second in the WHA's Western Division. A key moment came in 1973 when Gordie Howe, along with his sons Mark and Marty, signed with the Aeros. This marked the first instance of a father and his sons playing together in professional hockey. From 1973 to 1977, the Aeros dominated the WHA, winning four consecutive Western Division titles. They won the Avco World Trophy in 1974 and 1975. Despite their success, the team never made a profit.

In 1977, the NHL initiated merger discussions with the WHA. The Aeros applied for entry into the NHL, but the proposal was rejected. In July 1978, unable to find a new owner, the Aeros ceased operations. The contracts of fifteen players were sold to the Winnipeg Jets, and the remaining players were released.

International Hockey League/American Hockey League (1994-2013)

The Houston Aeros name resurfaced in 1994 when an expansion franchise joined the International Hockey League (IHL). Playing at The Summit (later Compaq Center) and then the Toyota Center, this iteration paid tribute to the original WHA team. In 1996, Dave Tippett was hired as head coach. The Aeros found success in the IHL, winning the Turner Cup in 1999.

When the IHL folded in 2001, the Aeros joined the American Hockey League (AHL) and became the primary affiliate of the Minnesota Wild. In 2003, they won the Calder Cup. However, disputes with the Houston Rockets owner over rent at the Toyota Center led to the team's relocation to Des Moines, Iowa, in 2013, where they became the Iowa Wild.

Legacy

The Houston Aeros made a lasting impact on hockey in Texas. The WHA Aeros were arguably the most successful professional sports franchise in Texas history at the time. While Houston has not had a major league hockey team since the Aeros' departure, the city has been considered for NHL expansion. The Aeros' alumni have continued to make their mark in the NHL. The Aeros remain a beloved team, and their fans hope to see hockey return to Houston.