- C$11 billion partnership doubles previous contract value
- Full national coverage across TV/digital platforms in all languages
- Includes Stanley Cup Finals & regional game streaming rights
- Follows NHL's US$4.5B ESPN/Turner deal from 2021
Rogers Communications has cemented its status as Canada's hockey broadcasting leader through a groundbreaking C$11 billion (US$7.7 billion) agreement with the NHL. This 12-year extension through the 2037-38 season represents a 111% value increase compared to their 2013 arrangement, reflecting hockey's growing economic power in the digital age.
Industry analysts highlight three critical trends driving this record investment. First, streaming now accounts for 39% of live sports consumption among Canadians under 35 according to 2023 CRTC data. Second, regional broadcasters like Bell Media face renewed pressure to secure sub-licensed content. Third, the deal positions Rogers to monetize augmented reality features through its 5G infrastructure.
A regional case study in Quebec demonstrates the stakes. When TVA Sports lost French-language NHL rights in 2021, Rogers' sub-licensing strategy maintained 92% viewer retention through multi-platform delivery. This new agreement formalizes bilingual coverage requirements, ensuring francophone markets receive parity in production quality.
Commissioner Gary Bettman emphasized technological commitments, stating: From 4K broadcasts to AI-powered camera angles, we're building hockey's first metaverse-ready media ecosystem.Rogers plans to launch a proprietary streaming platform integrating real-time stats and interactive fan polls by 2026.
The deal's ripple effects extend beyond broadcasting. Sports economists predict a 18-22% rise in Canadian NHL franchise valuations, particularly for the Montreal Canadiens and Toronto Maple Leafs. However, consumer advocates warn of potential subscription price hikes as Rogers seeks to recoup its investment.
With 83% of Canadians identifying hockey as their favorite sport in a recent Nanos Research poll, this partnership underscores the game's cultural permanence. As streaming fragments global sports audiences, the NHL-Rogers alliance represents a localized blueprint for maintaining traditional sports' relevance.
