Anaheim Ducks' Game Broadcasts Get a New Home
In a strategic move aimed at enhancing fan accessibility, the Anaheim Ducks have announced the transition of their local game broadcasts to a combination of direct-to-consumer streaming and local broadcasts. This initiative marks a significant shift in how the Ducks' games will be consumed by fans across their expansive TV market.
Bringing Games Closer to Fans
The Ducks' decision to move away from their former broadcaster, Diamond Sports Group, comes after the end of their contract at the conclusion of the 2023-24 season. Diamond Sports Group, currently facing bankruptcy proceedings in Texas, had been the Ducks' broadcasting partner. With the new broadcasting arrangement, the Ducks aim to increase the accessibility and reach of their games.
"We are so pleased to announce that fans in our entire television market, via stream or traditional television (cable or over-the-air), will see locally broadcast games free of charge," expressed Ducks president Aaron Teats. "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."
Broadcasting Over-the-Air and Online
As part of this new plan, 65 of the Ducks' games next season will be aired on an over-the-air channel in Los Angeles, specifically Channel 13. To further accommodate their fan base, all games will be available for regional streaming on the Victory+ streaming service at no cost to viewers. Victory+ will offer a free, ad-supported service that can be accessed through smart TVs, tablets, and smartphones starting in September.
Teats also highlighted the significance of the new platforms: ”The Ducks are already a significant content coordinator and have a team president with a broadcasting background.” Victory+, developed in collaboration with A Parent Media, is designed to deliver high-quality streaming experiences, thereby expanding the reach and engagement of Ducks fans.
Expanding Regional Territory
The Ducks' regional territory is extensive, covering Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Imperial, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties, as well as Hawaii. This wide reach underscores the importance of providing fans with various accessible viewing options. The over-the-air broadcasts on Channel 13 ensure that fans without internet access or streaming capabilities can still catch the live action.
In addition, renowned broadcasters Brian Hayward and John Ahlers will remain as part of the Ducks' broadcast team, ensuring continuity and familiarity for long-time viewers.
A Broader Trend in NHL Broadcasting
The Ducks’ shift to Victory+ and over-the-air broadcasts is part of a broader trend in the NHL. For instance, the Florida Panthers are moving their local broadcasts to Scripps Sports, while the Dallas Stars plan to stream their games regionally on Victory+. Despite the challenges faced by Diamond Sports Group, which will still carry games for eight NHL teams during the 2024-25 season, teams are clearly exploring alternative options to broaden their reach and enhance fan engagement.
Partnerships and Future Prospects
The Ducks have partnered with A Parent Media for this new broadcasting arrangement. The collaboration is expected to bolster the team's ability to connect with fans through innovative and accessible platforms.
As the landscape of sports broadcasting continues to evolve, the Ducks’ strategic shift exemplifies a forward-thinking approach aimed at maintaining robust engagement with their fanbase. By capitalizing on the capabilities of modern streaming services, the Ducks are positioning themselves to offer an enhanced viewing experience that resonates with contemporary sports audiences.