Anaheim Ducks to Broaden Game Accessibility with New Broadcast Strategy
In a strategic move aimed at boosting fan engagement and accessibility, the Anaheim Ducks are shifting their local game broadcasts to a blend of direct-to-consumer streaming and local over-the-air channels. This innovative approach is set to revolutionize how fans watch their beloved team.
The Ducks' forthcoming season will see 65 games broadcast on an over-the-air channel in Los Angeles, providing a traditional viewing option for local supporters. Simultaneously, every game will be accessible regionally through the Victory+ streaming service, which will be available at no cost to viewers.
A Free, Ad-Supported Streaming Platform
The Victory+ streaming platform, which is positioning itself as a free, ad-supported service, represents a significant shift in sports broadcasting. Fans can download the Victory+ app on smart TVs, tablets, and smartphones beginning in September, ensuring easy access across various devices. The over-the-air broadcasts will be available on Channel 13.
This move comes on the heels of the Ducks' contract expiration with their former broadcaster, Diamond Sports Group, at the end of the 2023-24 season. Diamond Sports Group is currently embroiled in bankruptcy proceedings in Texas, prompting the Ducks to explore new broadcasting avenues.
"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."
Expanding the Ducks' Reach
The Ducks' regional territory is extensive, covering Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Imperial, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties, as well as Hawaii. The strategic shift to Victory+ and local broadcasts is clearly designed to ensure that fans across this broad region can easily tune in to the games.
This shift is not isolated to the Ducks. Other NHL teams, such as the Florida Panthers and the Dallas Stars, are also exploring new broadcasting strategies. The Panthers have partnered with Scripps Sports, while the Stars plan to stream their games regionally on Victory+.
It's worth noting that Diamond Sports Group will continue to carry games for eight NHL teams during the 2024-25 season. Additionally, the company has existing agreements with the Los Angeles Angels (MLB) and the LA Clippers (NBA).
Maintaining Familiar Voices
Despite the shift in broadcasting partners, Ducks fans will still hear familiar voices. Longtime broadcasters Brian Hayward and John Ahlers will remain part of the Ducks' broadcast team, ensuring continuity in the viewing experience.
The Ducks have engaged A Parent Media for this new broadcasting arrangement. Jason Walsh, the chief operating officer for A Parent Media, emphasized the Ducks' strong foundation in content coordination and the significant role of their team president. "The Ducks are already a significant content coordinator and have a team president with a broadcasting background," Walsh noted.
A Forward-Thinking Approach
This strategic shift underscores the Ducks' commitment to enhancing fan engagement and making their games more accessible. By leveraging a combination of cutting-edge streaming technology and traditional broadcast methods, the Anaheim Ducks are setting a new standard for sports accessibility.
In conclusion, this move highlights the Ducks' forward-thinking approach to sports broadcasting. By making games accessible across multiple platforms without any cost to the viewers, the team is not only preserving but also expanding its connection with the fanbase, ensuring that the excitement of Ducks hockey reaches every corner of their regional territory.