As the upcoming National Basketball Association season approaches, fans of the Dallas Mavericks and the New Orleans Pelicans are eager to find out where they will be able to watch their favorite teams play. Both franchises are parting ways with their regional sports networks owned by Diamond Sports, according to a recent bankruptcy court filing. This shift in broadcasting platforms raises questions about the accessibility of local games for fans of these teams.
While the Mavericks and the Pelicans have not officially announced their new broadcasting partners, there have been rumors circulating about possible agreements. The Pelicans, for instance, have reportedly reached a deal with Gray Television to air their games this season. This move signals a shift from previous seasons where the team relied on Diamond-owned networks for broadcasting. On the other hand, the Mavericks had a previous agreement with Tegna’s Dallas-Fort Worth stations for a limited number of games last season.
The decision by the Mavericks and the Pelicans to move away from their Diamond-owned regional sports networks is part of a larger trend within the sports broadcasting industry. Diamond Sports has been struggling to overcome financial difficulties, leading to several NBA, WNBA, and NHL teams seeking alternative broadcasting options. In the case of MLB teams, some have opted to have their games produced by the league itself rather than relying on regional networks.
According to the court filing, Diamond Sports will receive significant payments from both the Mavericks and the Pelicans as part of terminating their agreements. This financial aspect of the transition underscores the challenges faced by both teams and the broadcasting company in navigating their way out of bankruptcy. The deals with the NBA and NHL for broadcast and streaming rights are seen as crucial steps towards stabilizing the company’s financial situation.
The bankruptcy of Diamond Sports reflects the broader challenges faced by traditional cable networks in an era of increasing digital streaming services. Despite attempts to adapt by launching sports-only streaming platforms, the company’s massive debt ultimately led to its bankruptcy filing. The pressure to demonstrate a viable business plan and ensure timely rights payments has only intensified as the NBA and NHL seasons draw closer.
One significant development in Diamond Sports’ recent history was the restoration of its networks on Comcast’s cable TV service. The blackout of Bally Sports networks on Comcast earlier in the year had affected a large number of viewers, highlighting the company’s reliance on cable distributors for reaching its audience. The resolution of this dispute was a positive step for both Diamond Sports and its viewership.
The changes in broadcasting arrangements for the Dallas Mavericks and the New Orleans Pelicans reflect the ongoing evolution of the sports media landscape. With a shift towards local broadcasters and a focus on financial stability, both teams are adapting to a changing industry while ensuring that fans can continue to enjoy watching their games.
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