Game 1 of the Cup Final a disaster for the National Hockey League.

The National Hockey League's Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final is a ratings disaster. 

Granted it was up against a very exciting Game 7 for the Western Conference Final in the NBA, but even with that in mind the 36% ratings drop when compared to last year has to be a massive blow to the league. 

According to Sports Media Watch the abysmal 2.7 overnight rating was the lowest the NHL has seen since 2012 when the Los Angeles Kings faced off against the New Jersey Devils, another damning stat for the NHL and it's broadcasting partner NBC. It was the third lowest rated Cup Final game since the NHL partnered with NBC in 2009.

The NHL is obviously hoping that Game 2 see a boost in the ratings without a head to head with the NBA, but with relatively small market teams competing for the Cup it could be a tough ratings year for the Cup Final.