The Anaheim Ducks are making a pivotal shift in the way fans consume their local game broadcasts. In a move designed to enhance accessibility and fan engagement, the Ducks will transition to a hybrid model of direct-to-consumer streaming and traditional local broadcasts.
This new broadcasting arrangement ensures that Ducks fans across the television market will have more ways than ever to watch games. The upcoming season will see 65 of the Ducks' games broadcast on an over-the-air channel in Los Angeles, specifically Channel 13. In addition, all games will be available for regional streaming on the new Victory+ streaming service, a free, ad-supported platform that promises no cost to viewers.
Aaron Teats, the Ducks' president, expressed his excitement about the initiative. "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," Teats said. He emphasized that the shift is a significant organizational priority, aiming to connect Ducks fans throughout their extensive regional territory, which includes Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Imperial, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties, as well as Hawaii.
The innovative Victory+ streaming service will be accessible to a wide audience, available for download on smart TVs, tablets, and smartphones beginning in September. This move not only underscores a modern approach to sports broadcasting but also highlights the strategic partnership between the Ducks and A Parent Media. Jason Walsh, the chief operating officer for A Parent Media, noted, “The Ducks are already a significant content coordinator and have a team president with a broadcasting background.”
The decision to transition comes in the wake of the expiration of the Ducks’ contract with Diamond Sports Group at the end of the 2023-24 season. Diamond Sports Group, which had been the Ducks' former broadcaster, is currently undergoing bankruptcy proceedings in Texas. Despite its financial troubles, Diamond Sports Group 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).
This move to Victory+ also aligns the Ducks with a growing trend in the NHL, where other franchises are exploring new broadcasting avenues to better serve their fan bases. The Florida Panthers, for example, are transitioning their local broadcasts to Scripps Sports, while the Dallas Stars are preparing to stream their games regionally on Victory+.
Fans can take comfort in the continuity of the on-air talent, as Brian Hayward and John Ahlers will remain as part of the Ducks' broadcast team. Their familiar voices and expert commentary will continue to bring the excitement of Ducks hockey to audiences across multiple platforms.
This strategic broadcasting shift reflects a forward-thinking approach by the Ducks organization, as they strive to make their games more accessible and engaging for fans. By offering free access to games through both traditional and modern channels, the Ducks are setting a new standard for how NHL teams can connect with their regional fan bases. "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 Teats.
As September approaches and the new season looms, Ducks fans can look forward to an enriched viewing experience, whether they choose to tune in via over-the-air broadcasts on Channel 13 or stream the games through the Victory+ app. The Ducks’ commitment to enhancing fan engagement stands as a testament to their dedication to delivering the thrill of hockey to every corner of their market.