Anaheim Ducks Revolutionize Broadcast Strategy for Upcoming Season
In a strategic shift poised to enhance fan engagement, the Anaheim Ducks are moving their local game broadcasts to a combination of direct-to-consumer streaming and local broadcasts. This comprehensive approach is designed to increase accessibility for fans throughout the Ducks' expansive TV market.
Over-the-Air Broadcasts and Regional Streaming
In a bid to reach a wider audience, 65 of the Ducks' games next season will be available on an over-the-air channel in Los Angeles. Additionally, all games will be streamed regionally on the Victory+ streaming service, offering a free, ad-supported viewing experience. This novel approach will ensure that fans can enjoy the games at no cost, regardless of whether they tune in via traditional television or a digital platform.
Ducks president Aaron Teats emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “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.” He further highlighted the organizational priority to connect with every fan in the region, ensuring they have the opportunity to watch Ducks games without incurring any costs across multiple, accessible platforms.
Partnerships and Platform Accessibility
The Ducks' former broadcaster, Diamond Sports Group, has been embroiled in bankruptcy proceedings in Texas, with their contract expiring at the end of the 2023-24 season. This paved the way for the Ducks to seek new broadcasting partners. They have now teamed up with A Parent Media for the new broadcasting arrangement. Jason Walsh, the chief operating officer for A Parent Media, praised the Ducks' capabilities, noting, “The Ducks are already a significant content coordinator and have a team president with a broadcasting background.”
The Victory+ app, which will facilitate the free regional streaming, is set to be downloadable on smart TVs, tablets, and smartphones starting in September. This easily accessible platform promises to cater to a broad spectrum of viewers, thereby ensuring maximum engagement.
Geographical Reach and Competition
The Ducks' regional broadcast territory is expansive, including Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Imperial, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties, as well as Hawaii. All over-the-air broadcasts will be available on Channel 13, further boosting accessibility for fans throughout these areas.
Interestingly, the Anaheim Ducks are not the only team making significant changes in their broadcasting strategies. The Florida Panthers are shifting their local broadcasts to Scripps Sports, while the Dallas Stars plan to stream their games regionally on Victory+. Despite these shifts, Diamond Sports Group is slated to carry games for eight NHL teams during the 2024-25 season and maintains agreements with other major sports teams, including the Los Angeles Angels (MLB) and the LA Clippers (NBA).
Maintaining Familiar Faces
Despite these changes in broadcasting platforms, fans can look forward to the continuation of familiar voices. Long-time broadcasters Brian Hayward and John Ahlers will remain as part of the Ducks' broadcast team, ensuring continuity and a touch of nostalgia for dedicated viewers.
Looking Ahead
This strategic broadcasting shift by the Anaheim Ducks aims not just to adapt to the changing media landscape but to set a precedent in how sports can be consumed by fans. By offering games free of charge across multiple platforms, the Ducks are ensuring that their fans remain deeply connected to the team, regardless of the medium they choose to use. As the new season approaches, fans can anticipate a seamless, engaging experience whether they tune in via traditional TV or the Victory+ streaming service.