In a significant shift aimed at broadening their reach and enhancing accessibility, the Anaheim Ducks are migrating their local game broadcasts to a mix of direct-to-consumer streaming and traditional local broadcasting. This innovative move is set to revolutionize the way fans engage with the team.
The Ducks' proactive strategy involves the broadcasting of 65 games on an over-the-air channel in Los Angeles, specifically Channel 13. Alongside this, every game will be streamed regionally on the Victory+ streaming service. Remarkably, this service will be provided at no cost to viewers, offering a free, ad-supported platform. The Victory+ app, available for download on smart TVs, tablets, and smartphones starting in September, will ensure fans have multiple, accessible platforms to enjoy matches.
“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,” stated 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.”
The Ducks' decision to pivot to this dual broadcasting strategy follows the expiration of their contract with Diamond Sports Group, their former broadcaster. The contract concluded at the end of the 2023-24 season, amid Diamond Sports Group's ongoing bankruptcy proceedings in Texas. This decision underscores the Ducks' commitment to ensuring robust fan engagement despite the financial turbulence experienced by their previous partner.
The strategic partnership with A Parent Media for the new broadcasting arrangement signifies a thoughtful approach to content dissemination. Jason Walsh, the chief operating officer for A Parent Media, highlighted the Ducks' capabilities by noting, “The Ducks are already a significant content coordinator and have a team president with a broadcasting background.” This expertise is set to fortify the team's content delivery, ensuring high-quality viewing experiences for fans.
The Ducks' extensive regional territory, which encompasses Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Imperial, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties, as well as Hawaii, stands to benefit tremendously from these changes. The accessibility of both over-the-air and streaming options ensures that a wide array of fans, regardless of their location within this territory, will have the means to stay connected to their favorite team.
In addition to these local broadcasting shifts, there are notable changes elsewhere in the NHL. The Florida Panthers, for instance, are transitioning their local broadcasts to Scripps Sports, while the Dallas Stars plan to stream their games regionally on Victory+. Despite the Ducks' departure, Diamond Sports Group will continue to carry games for eight NHL teams during the 2024-25 season and maintains agreements with the Los Angeles Angels (MLB) and the LA Clippers (NBA).
Despite these transitions, continuity remains a cornerstone of the Ducks' broadcast experience. Long-time broadcasters Brian Hayward and John Ahlers will continue to lend their voices and expertise to the Ducks' games, ensuring a familiar and engaging experience for viewers.
This strategic shift aims to not only diversify the ways fans can access Ducks games but also significantly enhance overall fan engagement. By embracing both traditional and modern broadcasting methods, the Ducks are poised to set a new standard in sports broadcasting, ensuring that every fan, regardless of their viewing preferences or economic ability, has the opportunity to follow the team's journey.