The Florida Panthers, two-time Stanley Cup finalists, have recently announced a significant shift in their television broadcast partnerships. In a move that has raised eyebrows within the hockey community, the Panthers have signed a multiyear deal with E.W. Scripps, a local broadcast station owner. This new agreement will see all locally produced Panthers preseason and regular season games, as well as round one of the playoffs, televised on Scripps’ networks.
The decision to part ways with their former cable TV regional sports network, Bally Sports Florida, marks a major departure from the traditional broadcasting model that many professional sports teams have relied on for years. This move comes at a time when the regional sports network business is facing significant challenges, with consumers increasingly opting for streaming services over traditional cable TV bundles.
The Panthers’ decision to team up with a local broadcast station owner is part of a larger trend within the sports industry. As networks like Bally Sports face financial difficulties, professional sports teams are seeking new avenues to reach a wider audience. By partnering with broadcast station owners, teams like the Panthers are able to tap into a larger viewer base and expand their reach beyond traditional cable TV subscribers.
The shift towards broadcast station owners as new partners for professional sports teams represents a fundamental change in how games are televised. These agreements offer fans a greater opportunity to access games, as broadcast networks are available to all pay TV subscribers and even to those using an antenna. While the financial details of these deals remain undisclosed, it is clear that the landscape of sports broadcasting is evolving rapidly.
Future Prospects
The Panthers’ new broadcasting deal with E.W. Scripps is just one example of the changing dynamics in the sports broadcasting industry. As more teams opt for partnerships with local broadcast stations, there may be increased competition for rights and more opportunities for fans to access their favorite teams’ games. It remains to be seen how this shift will impact the financial aspects of sports broadcasting deals and whether it will lead to a more sustainable model for teams and networks alike.
The Florida Panthers’ decision to switch to a new TV home with E.W. Scripps is a reflection of the changing landscape of sports broadcasting. As traditional cable TV regional sports networks face challenges, professional sports teams are exploring new avenues to reach a wider audience. This move highlights the evolving nature of the industry and raises questions about the future of sports broadcasting partnerships. Only time will tell how this decision will impact the Panthers, the NHL, and the broader sports media landscape.