Changes in Broadcast: Anaheim Ducks Embrace Streaming and Local TV
The Anaheim Ducks are taking significant strides to make their local game broadcasts more accessible to fans. In a strategic shift, the Ducks are moving their local game broadcasts to a combination of direct-to-consumer streaming and traditional local broadcasts. This move, aimed at enhancing fan engagement throughout the Ducks' TV market, promises to bring games free of charge to a wider audience.
Free Streaming on Victory+ Platform
A key component of this new approach is the Victory+ streaming service. All Ducks games will be streamed regionally on Victory+ at no cost to viewers. This ad-supported platform ensures that fans can watch games without any subscription fees. The Victory+ app, available for download on smart TVs, tablets, and smartphones starting in September, aims to make viewing as convenient as possible.
“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. This initiative reflects a significant commitment by the organization to connect with its fan base and enhance accessibility.
Over-the-Air Broadcasts on Channel 13
In addition to streaming, 65 of the Ducks' games next season will be broadcast on an over-the-air channel in Los Angeles, specifically Channel 13. This ensures that fans who prefer traditional television can still catch the action. 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, so this added broadcasting option is significant.
Transition from Diamond Sports Group
The Ducks' previous broadcaster, Diamond Sports Group, concluded its contract with the team at the end of the 2023-24 season. The shift comes amidst Diamond Sports Group's bankruptcy proceedings in Texas. Despite these challenges, Diamond Sports Group continues to carry games for eight NHL teams during the 2024-25 season and holds agreements with the Los Angeles Angels (MLB) and the LA Clippers (NBA).
Maintaining Familiar Voices
Fans can look forward to continuing to hear familiar voices. Brian Hayward and John Ahlers will remain as part of the Ducks' broadcast team, ensuring consistency and expertise in the game commentary. Their presence provides an element of continuity amidst the changes in broadcasting platforms.
Collaborations and Future Plans
The Ducks have partnered with A Parent Media for this new broadcasting arrangement. Jason Walsh, the chief operating officer for A Parent Media, emphasized the duck's strong position in content coordination and leadership with a broadcasting background, stating, “The Ducks are already a significant content coordinator and have a team president with a broadcasting background.”
This change is not happening in isolation. The Florida Panthers are also moving their local broadcasts to Scripps Sports, and the Dallas Stars plan to stream their games regionally on Victory+. These shifts underline a broader trend in the sports broadcasting industry towards greater flexibility and accessibility for fans across various platforms.
As the Ducks embark on this new broadcasting journey, the ultimate goal remains clear. “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,” reiterated Ducks president Aaron Teats. This strategy underscores a deep commitment to engaging with the fan base and ensuring that everyone in the region has the opportunity to enjoy Ducks games effortlessly.
With the combination of free, accessible streaming on Victory+ and traditional over-the-air broadcasts on Channel 13, the Ducks are setting a new standard for accessibility and fan engagement in sports broadcasting.