Prime Video Secures Exclusive Local Streaming Rights for Six NHL Teams

Key points

• The agreement begins on September 29, 2026, covering all non-nationally televised regular-season games and first-round Stanley Cup Playoff games for the six involved teams.
• Subscription costs are set at $19.99 per month or $99.99 per year for in-market fans, with no requirement to hold a standard Amazon Prime subscription.
• The deal replaces the defunct Victory+ service for the Ducks and Stars, and supersedes a centralized NHL production model for the Hurricanes, Blue Jackets, Wild, and Blues.
• Teams retain control over advertising and production costs, collaborating with the NHL for enhanced broadcast features like robotic cameras and expanded replay systems.
• Out-of-market viewers can still access games via NHL Center Ice or ESPN+, while some teams like the Wild offer additional linear TV options through their own networks.

Background

This development follows the collapse of FanDuel Sports Network and the dissolution of the Victory+ streaming service earlier in 2026. It expands Prime Video’s existing local sports portfolio, which already includes the Seattle Kraken and various MLB and NBA regional networks. The NHL has previously signed a 12-year deal with Prime Video for national Wednesday night games in Canada.

How outlets are covering it

The Hollywood Reporter and The New York Times emphasize the strategic expansion of Prime Video’s sports footprint and the NHL’s shift toward team-controlled distribution. WRAL highlights the specific pricing structure for Carolina Hurricanes fans, noting that the subscription is separate from Amazon Prime. FOX 9 focuses on the Minnesota Wild’s multi-platform approach, including linear television options, and clarifies that fans still need to pay for the specific team subscription even if they have Prime. All sources agree on the six teams involved and the start date, but differ in emphasis on the financial independence of the subscription and the availability of non-streaming alternatives.

Why it matters

This deal marks a significant shift in sports broadcasting, moving away from traditional regional sports networks toward direct-to-consumer streaming models. It provides fans with a unified platform for local games but introduces new subscription costs. For the NHL, it offers a way to maintain revenue and production quality despite the fragmentation of local rights, while for Amazon, it solidifies Prime Video as a major destination for live sports content.

What to watch

Teams are expected to announce additional distribution details, including cable and satellite options, before the regular season begins. The NHL and Prime Video will likely expand their partnership further as the 2026-27 season progresses, potentially adding more teams or leagues to the platform. Fans should monitor team-specific websites for channel lineup announcements and any changes to subscription pricing or availability.