The Anaheim Ducks are embarking on a bold new strategy to deliver their local game broadcasts, blending direct-to-consumer streaming with traditional local broadcasts. This strategic shift, designed to increase accessibility for fans, is set to redefine how Ducks' games are viewed across their TV market.
In the upcoming season, 65 of the Ducks’ games will be broadcast over-the-air on a channel in Los Angeles, ensuring broader accessibility. Furthermore, all games will be streamed regionally on the Victory+ streaming service, a move that comes at no cost to viewers. The Victory+ platform will provide a free, ad-supported service, making it an attractive option for fans eager to follow the Ducks without the burden of additional costs.
"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,” said Ducks president Aaron Teats. Teats emphasizes the organization's commitment to fan engagement and accessibility, noting, “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.”
This move comes on the heels of the expiration of the Ducks’ contract with their former broadcaster, Diamond Sports Group, at the end of the 2023-24 season. Coinciding with Diamond Sports Group's entanglement in bankruptcy proceedings in Texas, the Ducks saw an opportunity to pivot towards a more fan-friendly broadcasting strategy.
A Parent Media, the Ducks’ new partner in this broadcasting arrangement, is poised to play a pivotal role. Jason Walsh, the chief operating officer for A Parent Media, underscored the importance of this transition, stating, “The Ducks are already a significant content coordinator and have a team president with a broadcasting background.” This partnership is indicative of a broader trend within sports broadcasting aimed at maximizing reach while minimizing costs for fans.
Starting in September, the Victory+ app will be available for download on smart TVs, tablets, and smartphones, ensuring that fans have multiple ways to access Ducks’ games. Over-the-air broadcasts will be accessible on Channel 13, providing another avenue for fans to tune in without financial barriers.
The Anaheim 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 extensive coverage ensures that a significant number of fans will benefit from the new broadcasting strategy.
The Ducks are not alone in navigating new broadcasting waters. The Florida Panthers, for instance, are moving their local broadcasts to Scripps Sports, while the Dallas Stars plan to stream their games regionally on Victory+. Meanwhile, Diamond Sports Group, despite its financial challenges, will continue to carry games for eight NHL teams during the 2024-25 season and maintains agreements with the Los Angeles Angels (MLB) and the LA Clippers (NBA).
Longtime broadcast team members Brian Hayward and John Ahlers will remain on board, ensuring continuity for viewers who have grown accustomed to their commentary. Their sustained presence is a testament to the organization's commitment to maintaining a sense of familiarity and reliability amidst these changes.
As the Ducks forge ahead with their innovative approach to game broadcasts, it marks an exciting era for fans who are now more empowered than ever to follow their team. This strategic shift not only promises to enhance fan engagement but also sets a precedent for other sports teams contemplating similar moves in the future.