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Can You Get NHL Network on YouTube TV?

The short answer is: No, as of today, you cannot get NHL Network directly on YouTube TV. However, that doesn’t mean hockey fans are completely iced out. We’ll delve into alternative ways to catch all the thrilling NHL action, explore why NHL Network isn’t on YouTube TV, and answer your burning questions about streaming hockey in the digital age. Get ready to lace up your skates; we’re diving in!

Why Isn’t NHL Network on YouTube TV?

The absence of NHL Network on YouTube TV boils down to contractual agreements and negotiations between Google (which owns YouTube TV) and the NHL. These negotiations often involve complex discussions regarding broadcasting rights, subscriber fees, and channel packaging.

The Negotiation Breakdown

Broadcasting Rights: Who has the right to broadcast which games? This is a HUGE point of contention. The NHL, like any professional sports league, carefully guards its broadcasting rights, selling them to various networks and streaming services to maximize revenue. YouTube TV wants those rights, but at a price point that makes sense for them.
Subscriber Fees: YouTube TV operates on a subscription model. The more specialized channels they add, the higher the overall cost. Adding NHL Network would mean either raising subscription prices for everyone or creating a separate, more expensive sports package.
Channel Packaging: YouTube TV aims to offer a balanced channel lineup that appeals to a wide range of viewers. They must consider whether adding NHL Network would attract enough new subscribers to justify the added cost and complexity.

Essentially, Google and the NHL haven’t found common ground on the economic and logistical aspects of bringing NHL Network to the platform. It’s not necessarily a permanent situation, but for now, hockey fans need to explore other avenues.

Alternative Ways to Watch NHL Games

Don’t despair, hockey fans! Even without NHL Network directly on YouTube TV, there are numerous ways to catch all the slap shots, saves, and Stanley Cup dreams.

ESPN+

ESPN+ is a fantastic option for NHL enthusiasts. It offers a broad selection of live NHL games throughout the season, including out-of-market games and select nationally televised matchups. Plus, it’s relatively affordable, often costing less than adding a separate sports package to your existing TV service. Crucially, it does NOT include NHL Network’s studio shows or all NHL games.

Hulu + Live TV

Hulu + Live TV often carries many of the same channels as traditional cable, and it’s a viable option for accessing NHL games broadcast on ESPN, TNT, and regional sports networks (RSNs). Check your local listings to confirm RSN availability, as this is crucial for catching your favorite local team. Hulu + Live TV does not include NHL Network.

Sling TV

Sling TV offers a more customizable approach to streaming TV. You can choose from different base packages and add-on sports packages to tailor your channel lineup. However, like Hulu + Live TV, the availability of RSNs can vary depending on your location. Sling TV does not offer NHL Network as part of any package.

Traditional Cable or Satellite

While cutting the cord is trendy, traditional cable or satellite TV services remain a reliable way to access NHL Network. Most major providers offer NHL Network as part of a sports package or as an individual add-on channel.

NHL Center Ice/NHL.TV (Out-of-Market Games)

For fans looking to watch games outside their local broadcast area, NHL Center Ice (now part of ESPN+) offers a comprehensive selection of out-of-market games. However, it’s important to note that this service typically doesn’t include nationally televised games or games broadcast on your local RSN. Blackouts can apply.

Regional Sports Networks (RSNs)

If you’re primarily interested in watching your local NHL team, subscribing to a service that carries your regional sports network (RSN) is essential. However, keep in mind that RSN availability on streaming services can be inconsistent, so double-check before subscribing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About NHL Network and YouTube TV

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you navigate the world of streaming NHL hockey:

Will YouTube TV ever get NHL Network? It’s impossible to say definitively. Negotiations between Google and the NHL are ongoing, and the possibility of NHL Network joining YouTube TV in the future remains open.
What channels on YouTube TV show NHL games? YouTube TV currently carries ESPN, TNT, and certain RSNs (depending on your location), which broadcast NHL games.
How much does ESPN+ cost to watch NHL games? ESPN+ pricing varies, but it’s generally around $10.99 per month or $109.99 per year. Discounts may be available when bundled with other Disney streaming services.
Can I record NHL games on YouTube TV? Yes, YouTube TV offers unlimited cloud DVR storage, allowing you to record as many NHL games as you want.
Are there any free ways to watch NHL games? While there aren’t many legitimate free options, you might find occasional free trials or promotions from streaming services that carry NHL games. Be wary of illegal streaming sites, as they often contain malware and offer poor picture quality.
Does NHL Network have its own streaming service? No, NHL Network does not offer its own standalone streaming service.
Can I watch NHL Network on my phone or tablet? If you subscribe to a cable or satellite provider that carries NHL Network, you can typically access the channel’s content through their mobile app. ESPN+ also has a dedicated app for mobile viewing.
What is the difference between NHL Center Ice and ESPN+ for NHL games? NHL Center Ice (now part of ESPN+) focuses primarily on out-of-market games, while ESPN+ also includes select nationally televised games and other sports content. Blackout restrictions may differ.
Why are some NHL games blacked out? Blackouts occur to protect the broadcasting rights of local networks. If a game is being broadcast on your local RSN, it may be blacked out on out-of-market streaming services like NHL Center Ice.
Are there any VPN solutions to bypass NHL blackouts? While VPNs can potentially bypass blackouts, using them may violate the terms of service of your streaming provider. Proceed with caution. We do not recommend violating the terms of service agreements.
How can I find out which channel is broadcasting a specific NHL game? Check your local TV listings or use online sports schedules to find out which channel is broadcasting the game you want to watch. Services like ESPN and the NHL website have detailed schedules.
What are the best streaming devices for watching NHL games? Popular streaming devices include Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, and Chromecast. Make sure your device is compatible with the streaming services you plan to use.

In conclusion, while NHL Network isn’t currently available on YouTube TV, hockey fans have plenty of other options to catch all the action. Explore the alternatives mentioned above to find the best fit for your viewing needs and budget. And who knows, maybe one day we’ll see NHL Network added to YouTube TV’s channel lineup – never say never!