Has Bettman made another risky call? NHL signs new deal with Diamond Sports Group amid bankruptcy woes
Gary Bettman's track record with signing contracts that benefit the NHL isn't great, and his latest move could cost the league millions.
Commissioner Bettman is quick to make deals-whether for jersey partnerships or TV rights-that aren't the best fit for the league. Take the Fanatics partnership, for example: despite being notorious for quality issues, it's the official jersey provider for the NHL.
The NHL and NBA recently signed new broadcasting agreements with Diamond Sports Group, the company behind Bally Sports, which is currently on the verge of bankruptcy, meaning they're at risk of losing a hefty amount of TV revenue. The group has secured the broadcasting rights for nine different NHL teams; the Anaheim Ducks, Carolina Hurricanes, Columbus Blue Jackets, Detroit Red Wings, Los Angeles Kings, Minnesota Wild, Nashville Predators, St. Louis Blues, and Tampa Bay Lightning.
The deal is expected to be reviewed in federal court before becoming official on September 3.
David Preschlack, CEO of Diamond Sports Group, commented on the deal.
We are appreciative of the ongoing collaboration and long-term partnerships with the NBA and NHL. These new agreements that cover NBA and NHL linear and (direct-to-consumer) rights are another major milestone and continue Diamond's momentum toward emergence, which will enable us to provide value for our NBA and NHL partners and continue to serve dedicated local NBA, NHL, and MLB fans.
For a broadcasting service in the middle of monetary issues to claim they're givjng value is strange. It adds to the growing list of puzzling moves under Bettman's leadership. Hopefully this one doesn't haunt him or the other leagues involved.
Source: Blades of Steel
Gary Bettman signs contract with partner who nearly cost the league millions
Gary Bettman signs contract with partner who nearly cost the league millions
| POLL | ||
25 AOUT | 76 ANSWERS Has Bettman made another risky call? NHL signs new deal with Diamond Sports Group amid bankruptcy woes How do you feel about the Gary Bettman's recent partnership with Diamond Sports Group, despite their ongoing bankruptcy issues? | ||
| Concerned | 63 | 82.9 % |
| Optimistic | 13 | 17.1 % |
| LIST OF POLLS | ||
Latest 10 stories
