Answer: There are multiple ways to watch NHL hockey games. Here are five facts to help you find the best option for you:
1. TV Broadcasts: NHL games are broadcasted on national and regional channels such as NBC, ESPN, and NHL Network. These channels often have exclusive rights to certain games, so you will need a cable or satellite TV subscription to access them.
2. NHL.TV: NHL’s official streaming service, NHL.TV, offers live and on-demand coverage of all out-of-market games. This means you can watch any game that is not locally televised in your area. Subscribers can stream the games on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs.
3. Cable and Satellite Providers: Many cable and satellite providers offer sports packages that include NHL channels. These packages may require an additional fee, so check with your provider for availability and pricing.
4. Streaming Services: Popular streaming services like Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, Sling TV, and fuboTV also offer NHL coverage. These services provide live TV channels, including ones that broadcast NHL games. However, make sure to check if the streaming service you choose includes your local channels before subscribing.
5. NHL GameCenter LIVE: If you live in an area where all the NHL games are blacked out on NHL.TV, you can consider NHL GameCenter LIVE. This service allows you to stream games of your favorite team after they have aired on TV. It is a cheaper alternative to NHL.TV but may not be available in all regions.
FAQs:
1. Can I watch NHL games for free?
– While it is difficult to find free and legal NHL streams, some websites occasionally offer free trial periods for streaming services that include NHL coverage. Alternatively, you can check if any local channels broadcast NHL games for free.
2. Do I need a cable subscription to watch NHL hockey?
– No, you don’t necessarily need a cable subscription. You can choose from various streaming services and NHL’s streaming options like NHL.TV or NHL GameCenter LIVE to watch NHL hockey without cable.
3. Are blackouts a concern when using NHL.TV?
– Yes, blackouts are applicable for in-market games. NHL.TV only offers out-of-market games, meaning you cannot watch games that are locally televised in your area. To watch local games, you might need a cable subscription or use other streaming options that include your regional sports channel.
4. Can I watch NHL games on my mobile devices?
– Yes, NHL.TV and most streaming services are compatible with smartphones and tablets, allowing you to watch NHL games on the go.
5. Can I watch old NHL games?
– NHL.TV offers an extensive archive of past NHL games, allowing you to rewatch games from previous seasons. However, not all games may be available due to licensing restrictions.
6. Can I watch NHL games in different languages?
– Yes, certain NHL games are available in languages other than English. NHL.TV offers French-language broadcasts for select games, and some streaming services may have language options as well.
7. Can I watch the Stanley Cup playoffs and other NHL events?
– Yes, the Stanley Cup playoffs and other NHL events, such as the All-Star Game and Winter Classic, are usually broadcasted on national channels like NBC. You can also find these events on streaming services that include the respective channels.
BOTTOM LINE: Watching NHL hockey can be done through TV broadcasts, NHL.TV, cable/satellite providers, streaming services, and NHL GameCenter LIVE. Consider your preferences and available options to find the best method for accessing NHL games.
