What Amazon Prime Video deal could mean for Nashville Predators broadcasts, streaming
The Nashville Predators — and many other NHL, NBA and MLB teams — could be coming to Amazon Prime Video soon.
Amazon has agreed to acquire a minority stake in Diamond Sports Group, which owns 18 networks with local media rights for 37 teams across those three leagues, including Predators affiliate Bally Sports South, the company announced Wednesday.
The partnership is part of a restructuring agreement intended to help the largest regional sports network emerge from bankruptcy and is pending the approval of the bankruptcy court.
Diamond Sports, with more than $8.6 million in debt, filed for bankruptcy in March 2023.
A deal in April 2021 in which Sinclair Broadcasting Group acquired the regional networks from Bally's for $88 million resulted in a name change from Fox Sports Tennessee to Bally Sports South.
The Predators renewed their agreement with Bally Sports South in September 2022.
What does this mean for Nashville Predators TV broadcasts this season?
Most likely, not much. The agreement could mean some games are available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video, but the plan for NHL and NBA teams is to still broadcast games on Bally Sports platforms, too. Also, games will continue to be broadcast on cable and satellite providers.
What are the benefits to Nashville Predators games being broadcast on Amazon?
Simple: Reach. The Amazon platform offers a reach much larger than Bally Sports, making it easier for Predators fans to watch games.
The Amazon/Diamond deal also better positions Bally to continue Predators broadcasts for next season and beyond, though it doesn't guarantee the partnership will continue.
Where can I watch Nashville Predators games next season?
That depends. The Predators could find another broadcast partner next season or they could opt to stick with Bally.
The biggest concern with Bally, not just for the Predators but for many teams, is dwindling distribution. That means fans are having a more difficult time watching games.
So, the answer is: Nobody knows yet.
What Diamond Sports is saying
“We are thrilled to have reached a comprehensive restructuring agreement that provides a detailed framework for a reorganization plan and substantial new financing that will enable Diamond to operate and thrive beyond 2024,” Diamond Sports CEO David Preschlack said in a statement. “We are grateful for the support from Amazon and a group of our largest creditors who clearly believe in the value-creating potential of this business. Diamond’s near-term focus will be on implementing the RSA and emerging from bankruptcy as a going concern for the benefit of our investors, our employees, our team, league and distribution partners, and the millions of fans who will continue to enjoy our broadcasts.”
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This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Why Nashville Predators games could be headed to Amazon Prime Video
