LONDON, UK – Unhappy viewers in the United Kingdom and the Czech Republic will be able to finally get their regular fix of NHL action this weekend. Although coming a week into the season, Premier Sports will show NHL games in the UK, while Nova Sport will show games in the Czech Republic. Nova Sport will show up to five NHL games a week, starting with local hero Jarimir Jagr’s Philadelpiha Flyers taking on the Los Angeles Kings on Saturday. Premier Sports is only available exclusively to Sky Television customers in the UK, and will kick off their coverage with the Anaheim Ducks taking on the San Jose Sharks on Saturday night. Subscription costs £7.99 per month, and the channel has already announced 12 fixtures, including seven live games. ESPN were favourites to win a deal for NHL rights. However, the company will not be showing NHL action in the UK this season. An ESPN spokesperson said: ” ESPN spoke at length with the NHL and their rights holders about continuing a partnership in the UK but we could not reach an agreement that worked for everyone.
“We wish the league and their partners all the best in delivering the NHL to fans in the UK and remain in discussions with them about coverage in Europe.” The deal for lesser-known channel Premier Sports is likely to alienate some fans. Those who are not Sky customers will not be able to watch NHL action this season.
No television deal has been announced outside the UK and the Czech Republic, meaning fans are stuck watching over the internet on NHL GameCenter Live, dependent on a good internet connection. Contact the author david.bol@prohockeynews.com
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