NHL’s next media deal will test the league’s strength
How do the world's biggest media companies judge the value of non-NFL rights? The NHL is giving us our first window into a new era in media values.
The NHL's upcoming media deal is a significant event in the sports broadcasting landscape, as it will set a benchmark for the value of non-NFL rights. With the NFL's massive media deals serving as a reference point, media companies will be closely watching the NHL's negotiations to determine the worth of other top-tier sports leagues. A strong media deal for the NHL would suggest that other leagues, such as MLB, NBA, and MLS, may also be able to command high prices for their rights.
The NHL's current media deals, which include a $200 million-per-year agreement with NBC Sports and a $32 million-per-year deal with Rogers Communications in Canada, are set to expire. The league is expected to attract significant interest from media companies, including ESPN, Amazon, and Apple, which have all been expanding their sports offerings in recent years. A successful media deal for the NHL would not only provide a significant revenue boost for the league but also demonstrate its growing popularity and value to media companies.
As the NHL's media deal negotiations unfold, it's worth watching how the league's valuation compares to other sports leagues. The outcome will likely have implications for future media deals across the sports industry. Additionally, the NHL's deal may also provide insight into the growing importance of streaming services in the sports broadcasting landscape. Keep an eye on the bidding process and the final terms of the deal, as they will provide a key indication of the NHL's strength and the value of non-NFL sports rights.
Originally reported by cnbc.com. Trade-News adds analysis for finance & markets readers.