Espn Under Fire For Embarrassing Viewership Numbers

ESPN is renowned for its diverse sports coverage and, for the most part, does a commendable job. However, this seems to not hold true when it comes to their handling of the National Hockey League (NHL).

Ever since ESPN acquired the rights to cover the NHL, numerous fans, including Ryan Whitney, the host of Spittinchiclets, have expressed discontent with their lackluster advertising and awkward scheduling of NHL games.

A notable incident that upset fans involved missing the first half of the Edmonton Oilers versus Golden Knights elimination game because ESPN chose to broadcast the entirety of a 10-1 Major League Baseball blowout game.

Recently, ESPN's viewership numbers from the first two games of the Stanley Cup final, featuring the Golden Knights and the Panthers, were revealed. The figures showed a dramatic decline, dropping from 4 million views in 2022 to just 2.6 million this year, nearly half.

Adding to their troubles, ESPN has had to enact cutbacks, including parting ways with former NHL legend, Chris Chelios.

"Chris Chelios won't return next NHL season as an in-studio hockey analyst, two sources with knowledge of the matter told Front Office Sports. The Hall of Fame defenseman's contract is not being renewed, said sources. His departure had nothing to do with his performance. But it was part of ESPN's examination of talent contracts this month."
Personally, I believe that ESPN should relinquish the NHL coverage rights to a channel that can give the sport the respect it merits. The increasing dissatisfaction among hockey fans stems from the impression that ESPN doesn't care much about hockey. As a result, fans are questioning why they should watch NHL on ESPN.

Source:House Of Hockey

POLL
JUIN 7   |   130 ANSWERS Espn Under Fire For Embarrassing Viewership Numbers Do you watch ESPN Hockey?
Yes	63	48.5 %
No	67	51.5 %
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