NBC signs extension to NHL deal

16 July 2009 | Posted in Broadcast, Ice Hockey | By Adam Fraser

NBC has extended its contract with the National Hockey League, and will broadcast NHL matches for another two years.

NBC will screen nine matches over the course of the regular season, as well as a number of matches during the playoffs and five from the Stanley Cup. June's riveting Stanley Cup Finals between the Pittsburgh Penguins and Detroit Red Wings, the most-watched in more than three decades, played a key part in NBC continuing its commitment to the NHL.

The deal sees the NBC and NHL share revenue from advertising.

"The NHL/NBC partnership has been terrific. Our association has led to such technical innovations as the 'Inside the Glass' reporting and to such programming advancements as the extremely popular Winter Classic," said NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman. "Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final was broadcast television's most-watched hockey game in 36 years, which makes clear the NHL and NBC are building an audience, are building momentum and are perfectly positioned to continue growing the game."

NBC Sports president Ken Schanzer added: "We're thrilled to be able to continue our relationship with the NHL and build on all the positive momentum on and off the ice. Together, we have attained viewership milestones not seen in more than three decades. And the Winter Classic, in just two years, has become one of the highlights of the sports calendar. We strongly believe this is a league that is poised for continued growth."