In a strategic move to enhance accessibility and fan engagement, the Anaheim Ducks are transitioning their local game broadcasts to a mix of direct-to-consumer streaming and local broadcasts. This initiative aims to reach more fans across the Ducks' extensive TV market, providing multiple platforms for game viewing without cost to viewers.
Starting next season, 65 of the Ducks' games will be broadcast over-the-air on Channel 13 in Los Angeles. Additionally, every game will be available regionally via the Victory+ streaming service, a free, ad-supported platform. The Victory+ app, designed for smart TVs, tablets, and smartphones, will be available for download starting in September.
“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. “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' move comes as their former broadcaster, Diamond Sports Group, faces bankruptcy proceedings in Texas. The team’s contract with Diamond Sports Group expired at the end of the 2023-24 season, paving the way for this new broadcasting arrangement. Diamond Sports Group will continue to carry games for eight NHL teams during the 2024-25 season and has agreements with other major sports teams like the Los Angeles Angels (MLB) and the LA Clippers (NBA).
Expanding Reach Across Extensive Territory
The Ducks' regional territory is vast, encompassing Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Imperial, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties, as well as Hawaii. By offering both traditional over-the-air broadcasts and modern streaming options, the Ducks aim to ensure that their games are accessible to all fans within this large area.
Brian Hayward and John Ahlers will continue as part of the Ducks' broadcast team, providing consistent and familiar voices for the audience. The new broadcasting deal is in partnership with A Parent Media, an organization aimed at maximizing fan engagement through innovative media solutions.
“The Ducks are already a significant content coordinator and have a team president with a broadcasting background,” remarked Jason Walsh, the chief operating officer for A Parent Media. This background has likely played a crucial role in the strategic shift towards more accessible and fan-friendly broadcasting solutions.
A New Era for Regional NHL Broadcasts
The Anaheim Ducks are not the only NHL team exploring new broadcasting avenues. The Florida Panthers are shifting their local broadcasts to Scripps Sports, while the Dallas Stars plan to stream their games regionally on Victory+. This trend reflects a broader move within the NHL towards embracing digital platforms to reach a wider audience.
For the Ducks, the transition to Victory+ represents a significant step forward in their efforts to engage with fans more effectively. The free, ad-supported streaming service ensures that cost is not a barrier for fans wanting to follow their favorite team. This move aligns with the Ducks' commitment to making their content as accessible as possible.
As the Ducks embark on this new chapter, fans can look forward to a seamless and enhanced viewing experience, whether they choose to watch games on traditional television or through the Victory+ app. The blend of over-the-air broadcasts and modern streaming solutions reflects the team’s dedication to innovation and fan satisfaction. With the new season on the horizon, Ducks enthusiasts have much to be excited about, as they can enjoy their team's games across multiple, convenient platforms.