FeaturedNational Hockey League (NHL)

NHL Ratings Drop in the U.S: Is the League Losing its Appeal?

Photo of Igor Burdetskiy Igor Burdetskiy Follow on X February 3, 2023
1 1 minute read
FILE - In this May 27, 2019, file photo, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman speaks to the media before Game 1 of the NHL hockey Stanley Cup Final between the St. Louis Blues and the Boston Bruins in Boston. The most aggressive timetable, a person familiar with discussions told The Associated Press, would have players returning to their home rinks as early as May 15, followed by a training camp and possible exhibition games in June. Bettman emphasized no decisions have been made and cautioned government and medical officials will ultimately make the call on when sports can return. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa, File)

We’re a season removed from ESPN and TNT taking over as the NHL’s primary national television providers and things aren’t all smooth sailing in year two.

The 2022-23 NHL season is now more than halfway done. On Tuesday, it was revealed that national hockey ratings in the United States are down by 22%. According to Morning Consult’s Mark J. Burns, the NHL’s average viewership has dropped from 478,000 to 373,000 this season, which is undoubtedly something Gary Bettman does not want to see on his 30th anniversary as league commissioner.

Though the return to ESPN after 17 years should have reignited interest in hockey, it appears that it is waning this season.

The NHL has received some good news, as Disney has reportedly sold out ad space for the upcoming All-Star Weekend in Florida on February 3 and 4. Still, it’s clear that things aren’t going as planned for the NHL in terms of raw ratings.

Fans of the NHL, on the other hand, have been extremely vocal in their dissatisfaction with how the league has marketed itself this season. From vexing local blackouts to perplexing scheduling decisions, NHL fans have not held back in their criticism.

Igor Burdetskiy

Igor Burdetskiy

Founder, Editor-in-Chief, & CEO at Hooked on Hockey Magazine
I grew up playing Ball and Roller Hockey day and night somewhat religiously throughout elementary and middle school. The two don't compare though when I lace up the skates and hit the ice. I live and breathe hockey beyond the perspective of "it's just a game" and I will gladly talk hockey for hours with anyone. Hockey is more than just a lifestyle, it's a culture of passionate people who make memories every time the puck is dropped. Hockey has not only helped me get through some of the hardest times in life but has created some of the best memories to date. Want to talk hockey with me? Shoot me an email: iburdetskiy@hookedonhockey.com and let's talk some hockey!
Igor Burdetskiy
Photo of Igor Burdetskiy Igor Burdetskiy Follow on X February 3, 2023
1 1 minute read
Comments
Back to top button