The Anaheim Ducks are embracing the future of sports media, announcing a major shift in their game broadcasts to Victory+, a digital streaming service, while also securing a deal with KCOP-TV in Los Angeles to maintain a local television presence. The move comes amid financial struggles at Diamond Sports Group, the parent company of Bally Sports, which has forced several NHL teams to rethink their broadcast strategies.
A Bold Step Toward Digital-First Broadcasting
By transitioning to Victory+, the Ducks are joining the growing trend of direct-to-consumer streaming, offering fans an on-demand, flexible way to watch games. The new platform will not only provide live game coverage but will also include exclusive team content, behind-the-scenes access, and pre- and post-game shows.
“This is an exciting step forward for our franchise,” said Ducks President of Business Operations Aaron Teats. “We want to ensure our fans have the best possible access to Ducks hockey, whether they’re watching from home, on the go, or in the local market through KCOP-TV.”
Victory+ aims to cater to a younger, digital-savvy audience that increasingly prefers streaming over traditional cable. However, the addition of KCOP-TV provides a free-to-air option for fans in Southern California who may not yet be ready to make the transition to streaming.
The Fallout From Bally Sports’ Decline
The Ducks’ decision follows the financial instability of Diamond Sports Group, which filed for bankruptcy and left many regional sports networks struggling to meet their contractual obligations. The uncertainty surrounding Bally Sports’ ability to broadcast NHL games led the Ducks to proactively seek alternative solutions to avoid service disruptions.
Anaheim is not alone in this shift. Other NHL teams are also exploring streaming-first models or negotiating with local networks to ensure fans don’t lose access to live games. With more sports leagues moving away from traditional cable contracts, the Ducks’ decision to invest in their own digital platform signals a broader industry shift.
Concerns and Opportunities for Fans
While Victory+ provides a modernized approach to game broadcasting, the transition has raised concerns among some fans, particularly those in areas with unreliable internet access or those accustomed to traditional cable. The Ducks have assured their fan base that Victory+ will be available across multiple devices, with flexible pricing plans to ensure affordability.
With the NHL season just around the corner, the Ducks will now focus on making the transition as smooth as possible. Their success with Victory+ could serve as a model for other teams navigating the evolving sports media landscape, as digital streaming continues to reshape how fans engage with their favorite teams.
