The regional sports broadcasting landscape for the NHL has undergone a major shift as FanDuel Sports Network prepares to shut down operations following the conclusion of the current 2025-26 season. The network, formerly known as Bally Sports and operated by Main Street Sports Group, has faced prolonged financial difficulties stemming from earlier bankruptcy proceedings and challenges in the declining cable television market. This development marks the end of an era for local game telecasts carried over traditional regional channels.
FanDuel Sports Network has confirmed it will continue airing games for its remaining NHL affiliates through mid-April 2026, ensuring coverage for the full regular season and any ongoing playoff implications. The affected NHL teams include the Carolina Hurricanes, Columbus Blue Jackets, Detroit Red Wings, Los Angeles Kings, Minnesota Wild, Nashville Predators, and St. Louis Blues. These franchises have relied on the network for in-market broadcasts, reaching fans across various regions through cable and satellite providers.
With the impending closure, NHL teams are transitioning to new arrangements to maintain visibility on both traditional television and modern streaming platforms. This move reflects a broader industry trend toward direct-to-consumer options and league-involved production as regional sports networks struggle with cord-cutting and reduced carriage fees.
The Detroit Red Wings stand out as one of the first NHL teams to secure a forward-looking partnership. Starting with the 2026-27 season, the Red Wings will have their games produced and distributed through a collaboration with Major League Baseball’s media division. This arrangement builds on a similar deal for the Detroit Tigers, also under the same ownership group, Ilitch Sports + Entertainment. MLB will assist in production and handle aspects of distribution, while the Red Wings organization takes primary responsibility for game broadcasts. The setup aims to deliver consistent access across Michigan and the team’s home television territory, combining cable or satellite availability with a direct-to-consumer streaming service.
This partnership represents an innovative cross-sport approach, where MLB’s expertise in media production and distribution supports hockey content. Fans can expect games to remain widely accessible, avoiding the blackouts or limited reach that have plagued some markets during RSN instability. The model emphasizes reliability, with options for both traditional viewers and those preferring online platforms.
Other NHL teams previously tied to FanDuel Sports Network are exploring comparable solutions. Some may pursue individual deals with local broadcasters, while others could align with league-wide streaming initiatives or partner with national entities. The NHL has already integrated much of its out-of-market coverage into existing platforms, but the loss of regional networks accelerates the push toward hybrid models that blend over-the-air, cable, and digital delivery.
The shutdown underscores ongoing challenges in sports media rights. Declining subscriber numbers for cable packages have strained RSN economics, prompting teams to seek more flexible and fan-friendly alternatives. Streaming services offer greater control over access and monetization, potentially expanding reach beyond traditional geographic restrictions.
For NHL fans, the immediate impact remains minimal, as broadcasts continue uninterrupted through the end of the current campaign. However, the 2026-27 season will introduce new viewing experiences, particularly in markets like Detroit, where MLB-backed production promises enhanced production quality and broader distribution. This evolution signals a transformative period for professional hockey’s local media presence, prioritizing accessibility in an increasingly digital-first world.
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