The Anaheim Ducks are making a significant shift in how their local games will be broadcast, opting for a mix of direct-to-consumer streaming and local over-the-air broadcasts. This move is primarily aimed at increasing accessibility for fans across the Ducks' expansive television market.
Starting next season, Ducks fans can look forward to 65 games being broadcast on an over-the-air channel in Los Angeles, specifically Channel 13. In addition to these traditional broadcasts, all games will also be available for regional streaming on the Victory+ streaming service, completely free of charge.
Victory+ will be a free, ad-supported platform, ensuring that fans can access the games without any subscription fees. The platform is set to be downloadable on smart TVs, tablets, and smartphones beginning in September, making it readily accessible on a variety of devices.
A New Chapter in Broadcasting
The decision to move away from their former broadcaster, Diamond Sports Group, marks a new chapter for the Ducks. The contract with Diamond Sports Group expired at the end of the 2023-24 season, coinciding with the company's ongoing bankruptcy proceedings in Texas. Despite this shift, Diamond Sports Group will continue to broadcast games for eight NHL teams during the 2024-25 season and maintains agreements with the Los Angeles Angels (MLB) and the LA Clippers (NBA).
In a collaborative effort with A Parent Media, the Ducks' new broadcasting approach exemplifies a strategic vision to enhance fan engagement. Jason Walsh, the chief operating officer for A Parent Media, noted, “The Ducks are already a significant content coordinator and have a team president with a broadcasting background.” This insight underscores the team's ability to navigate this transition smoothly.
Increased Accessibility for Fans
Aaron Teats, the president of the Ducks, expressed his enthusiasm for the new broadcasting model, saying, “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.”
The Ducks' regional territory is extensive, including Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Imperial, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties, as well as Hawaii. Ensuring that every fan within this region can access the games has been a significant organizational priority for the Ducks.
“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,” Teats added.
Maintaining Familiar Voices
Fans can rest assured that despite the change in broadcasting platforms, the familiar voices of Brian Hayward and John Ahlers will remain as part of the Ducks' broadcast team. Their continued presence ensures a level of continuity and familiarity for long-time viewers.
Broader Implications in the NHL
The Ducks are not alone in their broadcast shake-up. The Florida Panthers are moving their local broadcasts to Scripps Sports, while the Dallas Stars plan to stream their games regionally on Victory+. These changes reflect a broader shift within the NHL towards more flexible and accessible broadcasting options for local games.
This strategic shift by the Ducks highlights a forward-thinking approach to sports broadcasting, aiming to meet fans where they are and provide easy, cost-free access to games. As the Victory+ app becomes available in September, fans can look forward to an upcoming season of hockey that's more accessible than ever before.