The US media giant, Sinclair has penned down a multi-year contract renewal with the National Hockey League (NHL), which covers the domestic digital and outer market distribution rights of the hockey competition.
Sinclair will hand over the rights to the Diamond Sports Group (DSG), which is fully owned by the media giant itself. DSG is permitted to offer streaming content, including live games, on an authenticated and direct-to-consumer (DTC) basis via the Bally Sports-branded regional sports networks.
While this new agreement will also allow Sinclair’s digital news platforms and alternative feeds to telecast the post-games highlights. It can also use NHL’s proprietary puck and player tracking data in live broadcasts.
The deal will be also be covering the local territories of 12 NHL teams which include, the Anaheim Ducks, Arizona Coyotes, Carolina Hurricanes, Columbus Blue Jackets, Dallas Stars, Detroit Red Wings, Florida Panthers, Los Angeles Kings, Minnesota Wild, Nashville Predators, St Louis Blues, and lastly Tampa Bay Lightning.
Speaking on the occasion, Chris Ripley, Sinclair Broadcast Group’s President, and Chief Executive Officer said: “We are incredibly proud to continue to partner with the NHL, with which we have had a long and successful relationship, to bring the fast pace and excitement of hockey to local fans across the country.”
He added, “Our announcement today signifies the importance that both parties place on the ability for sports viewers to consume content whenever and however they choose. The advent of a DTC model will further enhance flexibility for viewers, as well as offer them a highly-personalized and engaging experience, with functionality and interactivity well beyond what is offered today.”