The Anaheim Ducks are implementing a significant shift in their broadcasting strategy for the upcoming season, moving their local game broadcasts to a mix of direct-to-consumer streaming and traditional over-the-air local broadcasts. This strategic move is designed to increase accessibility for fans throughout the Ducks' extensive TV market.
Starting next season, fans will be able to watch 65 of the Ducks' games on an over-the-air channel available in Los Angeles, specifically Channel 13. In addition, all games will be streamed regionally via the Victory+ streaming service at no cost to viewers. The Victory+ platform will operate as a free, ad-supported service, ensuring broad accessibility.
Duck fans can look forward to enjoying this content on smart TVs, tablets, and smartphones come September when the Victory+ app becomes available for download.
Expanding the Reach
“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 stated. “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.”
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. This shift aims to enhance fan engagement and accessibility, ensuring that every fan within this territory can enjoy the games.
Transition from Diamond Sports Group
The Ducks previously had their games broadcast by Diamond Sports Group, whose contract expired at the end of the 2023-24 season. Currently, Diamond Sports Group is tangled in bankruptcy proceedings in Texas. Despite this, they will continue to carry games for eight NHL teams during the 2024-25 season and have agreements with the Los Angeles Angels (MLB) and the LA Clippers (NBA).
The Ducks’ move to Victory+ and over-the-air broadcasts marks a new beginning. The Florida Panthers have also transitioned their local broadcasts to Scripps Sports, while the Dallas Stars plan to stream their games regionally on Victory+.
Broadcast Team and Partnerships
Long-time fans will be relieved to know that Brian Hayward and John Ahlers will remain as part of the Ducks' broadcast team, adding continuity to this new venture. Moreover, the Ducks have partnered with A Parent Media for this new broadcasting arrangement. Jason Walsh, the chief operating officer for A Parent Media, remarked, “The Ducks are already a significant content coordinator and have a team president with a broadcasting background.”
Looking to the Future
This strategic broadcasting shift is a clear indication of the Ducks’ commitment to enhancing fan accessibility and engagement. By embracing both emerging and traditional media platforms, the team is positioning itself to cater to a broader audience in an evolving media landscape. Fans can anticipate an uninterrupted viewing experience and better access to their favorite team's games, aligning with the broader trend in sports media towards direct-to-consumer streaming services.
As the Anaheim Ducks prepare for the upcoming season, this transition heralds a promising new chapter, ensuring that the fervor and excitement of Ducks hockey reach as many homes and devices as possible, all without an additional cost to the viewer. It's a win for the team and, most importantly, for their dedicated fanbase.