The Anaheim Ducks are shaking up their local game broadcasts with a strategic move designed to enhance accessibility for fans across their TV market. Starting next season, the Ducks' games will be available through a combination of direct-to-consumer streaming and traditional over-the-air broadcasts.
Aiming to increase fan engagement and outreach, the team has decided that 65 of their games will be broadcast on an over-the-air channel in Los Angeles. These games will be available on Channel 13, ensuring even broader reach within the region. For fans preferring digital platforms, all games will be regionally streamed on the Victory+ streaming service at no cost. The Victory+ platform, set to launch in September, will offer a free, ad-supported service, ensuring no financial burden for the viewers. The app will be accessible on smart TVs, tablets, and smartphones.
“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.”
This pivot marks a notable departure from the team's previous broadcast arrangement with Diamond Sports Group, which expired at the end of the 2023-24 season. Diamond Sports Group, currently embroiled in bankruptcy proceedings in Texas, will continue to carry games for eight NHL teams during the 2024-25 season and holds agreements with the Los Angeles Angels (MLB) and the LA Clippers (NBA).
Expanding the Broadcast Territory
The Ducks' regional broadcast territory is extensive, covering Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Imperial, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties, as well as Hawaii. The decision to offer free, accessible broadcasts on multiple platforms aligns with the goal of covering their vast territory comprehensively.
To facilitate this new broadcast arrangement, the Ducks have partnered with A Parent Media. Jason Walsh, the chief operating officer for A Parent Media, highlighted the Ducks' strategic advantage in this new venture: “The Ducks are already a significant content coordinator and have a team president with a broadcasting background.”
Maintaining Familiar Faces
One aspect that remains unchanged in the Ducks' game-day experience is the broadcast team. Brian Hayward and John Ahlers will continue to bring their expertise and commentary to Ducks' fans, ensuring continuity and familiarity in the new broadcast setup.
Analogs in the NHL
The Ducks are not alone in revising their broadcast strategies. The Florida Panthers have announced a shift, moving their local broadcasts to Scripps Sports. Similarly, the Dallas Stars plan to stream their games regionally on the Victory+ platform, mirroring the Ducks' approach. These moves indicate a broader trend within the NHL towards embracing streaming services and diverse broadcast options to enhance fan accessibility and engagement.
Conclusion
With these forward-thinking broadcast arrangements, the Anaheim Ducks demonstrate a commitment to breaking down barriers and bringing the game closer to their fans. By offering multiple, cost-free viewing options, the Ducks are set to provide unparalleled access to their games, reaffirming their dedication to fan engagement and regional outreach. The upcoming season promises not just exciting on-ice action, but also an innovative and accessible viewing experience for fans across their wide broadcast territory.