Earlier this year the NHL announced it had struck a 10-year, $1.9 billion deal with the NBC Sports Group that finally will allow hockey fans to see every Stanley Cup playoff game live and in its entirety. The deal will offer fans more than 100 live games on the NBC Sports Network (currently Versus) and NBC during the 2011-2012 regular season. Also adding to the coverage will be a stronger NHL Network, which will add another 78 games to the mix. NHL Network executive producer Mark Preisler said there is plenty more for fans to look forward to in 2011-2012.
Explain how the NHL Network and the NBC Sports Group will be working together?
Preisler » We will share a brand new, state-of-the-art broadcast complex together. You will see our talent on their air, and we will have NBC Sports Group talent on our shows. It is two separate networks working together to serve the viewers in the best way we can.
What will be new on the NHL Network this season?
Preisler » Our new set in New York overlooking Sixth Avenue will be a great backdrop for our “NHL Live” show, which can be seen weeknights from 5 p.m. till 7 p.m. We have added an “Arena Cam” that will be in at least 15 buildings with more being added. That will allow us to watch skate around as well as talk to players both before and after the games. That instant access feature will help all of our studio shows.
What about your signature show, “NHL on the Fly”?
Preisler » We open at 7 p.m., and of course it does not end till the final game of the night is over. … The success of the show has been our ability to break down games while they are being played as well as give instant analysis after the games end. We could not accomplish this goal without our great relationships with the regional sports networks around the country and in Canada. They give us a huge talent base, and we see them as our partners. For instance, we will go to CSN Mid-Atlantic after a Caps win and show nationally their interview with the star of the game or a postgame press conference. That kind of access to all the game broadcasts leaguewide enhances our coverage.
Examiner columnist Jim Williams is a seven-time Emmy Award-winning TV producer, director and writer. Check out his blog, Watch this!, on washingtonexaminer.com.
