The Anaheim Ducks recently made a groundbreaking decision to shift their local game broadcasts from a regional sports network to a combination of direct-to-consumer streaming and local television. This move marks a significant shift in how NHL teams are approaching broadcasting their games, setting a new precedent in the industry.
In a move that took many by surprise, the Ducks announced that 65 games in the upcoming season will be broadcast over an over-the-air channel in Los Angeles. Additionally, they have entered into a multi-year partnership with A Parent Media Co. Inc. to stream all games regionally on the Victory+ streaming service, free of charge. This decision comes after the expiration of their contract with Diamond Sports Group, where games were previously aired on Bally Sports West.
The Ducks’ decision to overhaul their broadcasting model follows a trend in the NHL, with several teams making similar shifts this off-season. The Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers have moved their local broadcasts to Scripps Sports, while the Dallas Stars will also be streaming games regionally on Victory+. This signals a broader industry-wide movement towards leveraging streaming platforms to reach a broader audience.
Ducks President Aaron Teats emphasized the importance of providing fans with easy access to watch games, stating, “It is a significant organizational priority to connect Ducks fans with our entire market and for every fan in our region to have the opportunity to watch Ducks games without cost across multiple, accessible platforms.” This commitment to fan accessibility highlights the team’s dedication to enhancing the overall viewing experience for supporters.
The implementation of both over-the-air broadcasts and streaming services allows the Ducks to reach a wider audience encompassing regions such as Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Imperial, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties, as well as Hawaii. By leveraging multiple platforms, the team can engage fans across various demographics and geographical locations, making the games more accessible to a broader fan base.
The Victory+ streaming app is set to launch in September, providing fans with the ability to watch games on smart TVs, tablets, and smartphones. This mobile-friendly approach ensures that fans can enjoy the games from anywhere, further enhancing the viewing experience. The free, ad-supported streaming service underscores the team’s commitment to making games accessible to all fans, regardless of their location or financial means.
While the announcers for the over-the-air broadcasts have yet to be announced, it is expected that the current broadcast team will remain intact. Brian Hayward has been the analyst since the franchise’s inception in 1993, and John Ahlers has provided play-by-play commentary for 22 seasons. This continuity ensures that fans can expect the same standard of quality and familiarity in game coverage.
The Anaheim Ducks’ decision to revolutionize their broadcasting model represents a bold step towards adapting to the evolving landscape of sports media. By combining traditional television broadcasts with streaming services, the team is paving the way for a more accessible and engaging viewing experience for fans. This strategic move not only enhances fan engagement but also sets a new standard for how NHL teams approach broadcasting in the digital age.