The Anaheim Ducks are set to revolutionize their game broadcasts. In an era where media consumption habits are rapidly evolving, the Ducks are making a strategic move by transitioning their local game broadcasts to a hybrid model that includes both direct-to-consumer streaming and traditional local broadcasts. This shift, driven by the desire to enhance accessibility and engagement, will ensure that fans across the Ducks' TV market have unprecedented access to their favorite team.
Enhanced Accessibility for Fans
Starting next season, an impressive 65 Ducks games will be broadcast on an over-the-air channel in Los Angeles, specifically Channel 13. This marks a significant commitment to maintaining traditional broadcast methods while embracing modern technology. All regional games will also be available via the Victory+ streaming service, a free, ad-supported platform that eliminates the cost barrier for fans. Fans will have the convenience of watching games on smart TVs, tablets, and smartphones through the Victory+ app, which will be available for download beginning 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," stated Ducks president Aaron Teats. This move underscores the organization's dedication to its fan base, aiming to make the Ducks' games more accessible than ever before.
Strategic Partnerships and Broadcast Team Continuity
The Ducks' transition comes after their contract with Diamond Sports Group expired at the end of the 2023-24 season. Diamond Sports Group, which is currently embroiled in bankruptcy proceedings in Texas, had been a long-standing broadcast partner. However, the move to a new broadcasting format allows the Ducks to look forward with renewed optimism.
For this new broadcasting arrangement, the Ducks have teamed up with A Parent Media. Jason Walsh, the chief operating officer for A Parent Media, emphasized the Ducks' capability in this domain, noting, "The Ducks are already a significant content coordinator and have a team president with a broadcasting background.” This new partnership is expected to bring fresh and innovative perspectives to the Ducks' broadcasts.
In a move that will be warmly welcomed by fans, the broadcast duo of Brian Hayward and John Ahlers will remain an integral part of the Ducks' broadcast team. Their continued presence will provide a sense of continuity and familiarity as the Ducks navigate this new broadcasting landscape.
Regional Coverage Expansion
The Ducks' regional territory is expansive, covering Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Imperial, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties, as well as Hawaii. This broad coverage area highlights the importance of ensuring that fans in all these regions have access to broadcasts. The Victory+ streaming service, with its no-cost model, plays a crucial role in achieving this objective.
"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," Teats reiterated. This goal underpins the strategic shift, emphasizing the organization's focus on fan engagement and accessibility.
Industry-Wide Changes
The Ducks are not alone in rethinking their broadcast strategies. The Florida Panthers, for instance, are transitioning their local broadcasts to Scripps Sports. Similarly, the Dallas Stars plan to stream their games regionally on Victory+, indicating a broader trend in the league towards embracing innovative broadcasting solutions.
Despite the Ducks' departure, Diamond Sports Group will continue to carry games for eight NHL teams during the 2024-25 season. Additionally, the group maintains agreements with other major sports franchises such as the Los Angeles Angels (MLB) and the LA Clippers (NBA). Nonetheless, the bankruptcy proceedings add a layer of uncertainty to its future.
This dynamic shift in broadcasting strategy reflects a broader evolution within the sports media landscape. It acknowledges changing viewer preferences and leverages technological advancements to provide a more accessible and engaging experience for fans. For the Anaheim Ducks and their supporters, this new approach promises to keep the excitement of the game within reach, no matter where they are.