The Anaheim Ducks have announced a significant shift in their broadcasting strategy, moving local game broadcasts to a combination of direct-to-consumer streaming and local over-the-air channels. This move aims to enhance accessibility for Ducks fans across their TV market, enabling them to watch games for free on multiple platforms.
An Inclusive Approach to Accessibility
A significant portion of the Ducks’ 2024-25 season will see 65 games broadcasted on Channel 13 in Los Angeles. Additionally, for those preferring digital platforms, all games will be streamed regionally through the Victory+ streaming service at no cost to viewers. The Victory+ platform will offer a free, ad-supported service, ensuring that fans have easy access to Ducks’ games without any financial burden.
“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,” Ducks president Aaron Teats said. “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.”
Transition from Diamond Sports Group
The Ducks' decision comes on the heels of their contract with Diamond Sports Group, which expired at the end of the 2023-24 season. Diamond Sports Group is currently navigating bankruptcy proceedings in Texas. Despite these challenges, the group will continue to broadcast games for eight NHL teams during the 2024-25 season and has agreements with MLB’s Los Angeles Angels and the NBA’s LA Clippers.
As part of this transition, the Ducks' broadcasts will now be managed in partnership with A Parent Media. Jason Walsh, the Chief Operating Officer for A Parent Media, highlighted the Ducks' strong content coordination and their team's broadcasting proficiency. “The Ducks are already a significant content coordinator and have a team president with a broadcasting background,” Walsh remarked.
Expanded Regional Coverage
The Ducks’ comprehensive regional territory includes Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Imperial, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties, as well as Hawaii. The over-the-air broadcasts, coupled with the launch of the Victory+ app, underscore the team's commitment to maximizing reach and engagement. The Victory+ app will be available for download on smart TVs, tablets, and smartphones starting in September.
Consistency in Coverage
In a reassuring move for Ducks fans, the team has confirmed that Brian Hayward and John Ahlers will remain part of the broadcast team, ensuring continuity in coverage and familiar voices for the audience.
Comparative Moves in the NHL
The Ducks are not alone in their strategic broadcast shift. The Florida Panthers, for instance, are moving their local broadcasts to Scripps Sports. Similarly, the Dallas Stars are planning to stream their games regionally on Victory+. These changes signify a broader trend within the NHL towards enhancing fan experience and accessibility through varied and innovative broadcast solutions.
“The strategic shift aims to enhance fan engagement and accessibility,” said Ducks president Aaron Teats. This sentiment resonates strongly with fans who now have an enriched viewing experience and greater flexibility in how they watch their favorite team.
As the Ducks gear up for the upcoming season, the combination of over-the-air broadcasts and the Victory+ streaming service represents a forward-thinking approach designed to connect with a broader audience. This initiative not only reflects the evolving landscape of sports broadcasting but also reinforces the Ducks' commitment to their fan base.