A bold new era is upon us in the world of sports broadcasting! Two iconic teams, the Angels and the Braves, are contemplating a revolutionary move: creating their own regional TV networks. But here's where it gets controversial... they're not alone in this venture!
Sources reveal that these teams are in talks to form networks that could potentially include other major sports franchises. The Angels, for instance, are eyeing a partnership with the NHL's Kings, while the Braves are discussing a collaboration with the NBA's Hawks.
Let's break this down. The Angels, who currently share a network with Main Street Sports Group, would need to buy out their partner to establish their own network. Once that's done, they could offer the Kings a spot on their network, with the Kings receiving a rights fee but no ownership stake.
The Braves, on the other hand, are taking a different approach. They're in talks with the Hawks to create a single broadcast home in the South, with the Braves potentially owning and controlling the network. And this is the part most people miss: the Braves' network could expand to include multiple teams, with speculation pointing to a broadcast conglomerate of Gray television stations throughout the Southeast.
But here's the catch: the viability and depth of these plans are still unclear. Sources say the teams are aiming for a launch in time for the 2026 MLB season, which begins in just over 50 days.
The Angels, technically taking over a Main Street network, could televise the Kings' games immediately, but with a shortened schedule, there's not much time left this season. For the Hawks, a switch to the Braves' network would likely happen in the 2026-27 season.
Regardless of the timing, this trend of franchises teaming up as proprietary broadcast partners is gaining momentum. We've seen similar collaborations in Houston with the Rockets and Astros, and in Chicago with the Bulls, White Sox, and Blackhawks.
But here's where it gets interesting: some teams are opting for a league-wide approach. Of the nine MLB teams that have left Main Street, several have committed to having their games produced and distributed by MLB itself. The Tigers are expected to follow suit, but there's a twist: the Ilitch Family, who also own the Red Wings, are in complex talks with MLB to potentially include the Red Wings' games as well.
As for the NBA and NHL teams still affiliated with Main Street, they're bracing for the worst. With Main Street's wind-down process ongoing, these teams are preparing for an immediate liquidation, which would mean an end to FanDuel Sports Network broadcasts mid-season.
Sources say Main Street is working towards a wind-down without liquidation, but the NBA and NHL teams are aware that the decision ultimately lies with the creditors. They're preparing for a potential cliff scenario, where Main Street goes dark at any moment. In such a case, NBA games would likely move to League Pass, and NHL contests to the league's Game Center app.
Either way, these teams are already planning for next season, assuming Main Street won't be in business. They're exploring options with other outlets like ViewLift, Kiswe, and Victory+, or considering a partnership with their respective leagues.
So, what do you think? Are these teams making a smart move by creating their own networks, or is this a risky venture? The future of sports broadcasting is in flux, and we want to hear your thoughts! Comment below and let's discuss!
