DIRECTV secures multi-year NHL distribution deals

DIRECTV has entered into a multi-year distribution agreement with the National Hockey League to carry four new regional channels. The agreement provides coverage for the Carolina Hurricanes, Columbus Blue Jackets, Minnesota Wild, and St. Louis Blues.

The new channels—Hurricanes Hockey Network, Blue Jackets Hockey Network, Wild+, and Blue Note+—will feature live games, as well as pregame and postgame programming. Access is available to DIRECTV satellite and streaming subscribers with the Choice package or higher, and to U-verse customers with U200 packages or higher within the teams' respective local territories.

The deal also extends to DIRECTV FOR BUSINESS, allowing commercial venues such as restaurants, sports bars, and fitness centers to broadcast the programming. This expansion is part of DIRECTV’s broader effort to secure local rights for professional sports, with the provider now holding distribution rights for 76 of the 81 U.S.-based NHL, NBA, or MLB franchises.