In a strategic move to bolster fan engagement and accessibility, the Anaheim Ducks have announced a significant shift in the broadcasting of their local games. Moving forward, Ducks games will be available through a combination of direct-to-consumer streaming and local television broadcasts, ensuring extensive coverage for fans across their regional territory.
New Era of Accessibility
The primary objective of this change is to enhance the accessibility for Ducks fans throughout the TV market. The organization has confirmed that 65 of their games next season will be broadcast on an over-the-air channel in Los Angeles, specifically Channel 13. This initiative is aimed at making games more readily accessible to a broader audience base.
All games will be regionally streamed on the Victory+ streaming service at no cost to viewers. Victory+ will offer a free, ad-supported platform, allowing fans to watch their favorite team without any subscription fees. "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," said Ducks president Aaron Teats.
Expanding Regional Coverage
The Ducks' regional territory coverage is expansive, encompassing Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Imperial, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties, in addition to Hawaii. The broad reach of this initiative is a testament to the organization’s commitment to making their games accessible to as many fans as possible. "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 emphasized.
Transition from Diamond Sports Group
This shift marks the end of the Ducks' association with Diamond Sports Group, whose contract expired at the end of the 2023-24 season. Diamond Sports Group is currently involved in bankruptcy proceedings in Texas, which possibly influenced the Ducks' decision to move forward with a new broadcasting partner.
Victory+, the chosen streaming service, is set to be downloadable on smart TVs, tablets, and smartphones starting in September, ensuring that fans have various options to follow the games. The service’s adoption reflects a growing trend in sports broadcasting, leveraging modern technology to reach audiences where they are most comfortable consuming content.
A Partnership for the Future
To facilitate this new broadcasting arrangement, the Ducks have partnered with A Parent Media. Jason Walsh, the chief operating officer for A Parent Media, underscored the Ducks' commitment to content coordination. "The Ducks are already a significant content coordinator and have a team president with a broadcasting background," Walsh noted.
Despite the changes in how games will be broadcast, fans can rest assured that the familiar voices of Brian Hayward and John Ahlers will continue to be part of the Ducks' broadcast team. Their presence provides a sense of continuity and familiar connection for viewers tuning in.
Following the Trend
The Anaheim Ducks are not the only NHL team adapting to the evolving landscape of sports broadcasting. The Florida Panthers have transitioned their local broadcasts to Scripps Sports, while the Dallas Stars plan to stream their games regionally on Victory+. Even as Diamond Sports Group maintains agreements to carry games for eight NHL teams during the 2024-25 season, the trend toward more flexible and accessible broadcasting methods seems clear.
Looking Forward
The Ducks’ new broadcasting strategy represents a forward-thinking approach aligned with the demands of modern viewership. By eliminating barriers to access and utilizing both traditional and digital platforms, they are ensuring that no fan is left behind. With the combined capability of over-the-air channels and a versatile new streaming platform, the Ducks are perhaps setting a new benchmark for how sports franchises can effectively reach and engage their audiences.
In a sports world that is perpetually evolving, the Anaheim Ducks’ approach to game broadcasts is a significant step forward, promising to deepen the connection between the team and its extensive fanbase.