Vancouver Canucks’ TVs Turn Prime Video: A New Era in Hockey Broadcasting
This season, Canucks fans are in for a unique change in how they watch their team’s games. Monday night’s match against the San Jose Sharks won’t be broadcast on Sportsnet. This marks a significant shift that has been a long time coming, considering the team’s broadcasting history.
The Canucks’ Evolving Broadcasting Landscape
Past Canucks teams have experienced limited television coverage. In the early years, fans could catch games only on either CBC on Saturdays or CTV on Wednesdays during Hockey Night in Canada. In the 1980s, the Canucks restricted game broadcasts out of concern for ticket sales, and in the 1990s, they were fortunate to see roughly 30 games televised between CBC, TSN, and local channels like BCTV and Chek.
It wasn’t until the last couple of decades that every Canucks game became accessible for fans at home.
The Shift to Prime Video
Fast forward to 2010, Canucks games were available only via pay-per-view, requiring fans to gather at friends’ houses or bars to watch. Now, four games this season, including next Monday’s game against the San Jose Sharks, featuring Vancouver’s Macklin Makaranos in his home debut, will only be available on Prime Video, Amazon’s streaming service.
Options for Canucks Fans
For Canucks fans, there are a few ways to watch the game.
Attend the Game Live
Attending a game in person provides a one-of-a-kind experience, though it is not the most accessible method. Resale tickets for Monday’s game alone start at around $120 per seat, with standard tickets at approximately $150.
Subscribe to Prime Video
For fans seeking a more affordable option, Prime Video is the way to go. If you already have an Amazon Prime subscription, you get access to Prime Video for free. Sign in on the Prime Video website or download the app on a smart TV or device to stream the game.
For those without an existing subscription, Amazon offers a 30-day free trial for a low cost. This trial allows you to watch Monday’s game against the Sharks, as well as the January 6 match against the Montreal Canadiens. If you enjoy these games, you might find it worthwhile to stay subscribed for the remaining dates: January 27 against the St. Louis Blues and March 24 against the New Jersey Devils. The full subscription costs $9.99 per month.
The Future of Canucks Broadcasting
This latest development reflects a broader trend in sports broadcasting, with major teams increasingly relying on streaming services. Compared to pay-per-view prices a decade ago, Prime Video offers a more feasible option for many Canucks fans. While some may feel frustrated by the shift from traditional broadcast networks like Sportsnet, Prime Video provides content variety that could make it a valuable subscription.
Conclusion
The Canucks’ decision to air four games of the season exclusively on Prime Video marks a shift in how fans can watch their favorite team. While the change may come as a surprise to long-time broadcasters, it offers numerous benefits, from budget-friendly viewing options to access to other streaming content. As the future continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how more teams will engage with streaming platforms to connect with fans.
Share your thoughts on this new broadcasting model and discuss any alternative ways you plan to catch Canucks games this season. We’re excited to hear from you!
