Josh Kosman
Amazon is nearing a major deal to broadcast NBA, MLB, and NHL games on Prime streaming. This potential agreement could change how fans watch local sports. According to sources, the talks are in the final stages as of September 5, 2024. If finalized, fans may access local games without a cable subscription.
Key takeaways:
- Amazon plans to stream local NBA, MLB, and NHL games.
- Fans could pay around $20 a month for access.
- The deal may accelerate the trend of cord-cutting.
- Amazon’s streaming service could launch next month.
Amazon’s Bold Move into Sports Streaming: What to Expect
Amazon is making significant strides in sports broadcasting. The company is in late-stage talks to livestream local games for 13 NBA franchises, five MLB teams, and nine NHL teams. This new service could launch as early as next month, coinciding with the start of the NHL and NBA seasons. Fans will likely pay about $20 monthly for access to their home team’s games via Amazon Prime.
Impact on Local Sports and Viewership Trends
This deal could greatly impact local sports viewership. Fans will no longer need a cable subscription to catch their favorite teams. This shift may lead to increased cord-cutting as more viewers turn to streaming services. While Bally Sports will continue to broadcast games on cable, Amazon’s entry into this market may change the game for sports fans.
Details of the Proposed Amazon Sports Streaming Deal
The proposed deal includes broadcasting all non-nationally televised NBA games for various teams, including the Atlanta Hawks and Miami Heat. Additionally, Amazon will stream local games for several MLB and NHL teams. This would enhance Amazon’s existing sports offerings, which already include NFL games.
- NBA: 13 franchises included
- MLB: 5 teams under negotiation
- NHL: 9 teams expected to be streamed
- Monthly fee around $20 for fans
Challenges Ahead for Diamond Sports and Amazon
Diamond Sports, the owner of Bally Sports, is currently in bankruptcy. They hope that a deal with Amazon will help them emerge from Chapter 11 by expanding their subscriber base. However, financial terms of the deal remain undisclosed, and it is not exclusive, allowing Amazon to explore other streaming partnerships.
For more details, visit the original reports from New York Post and check out Awful Announcing for updates on sports broadcasting.
