Red Wings see massive gains in TV viewership

While it certainly was a disappointing end to the season, the Detroit Red Wings did come the closest they've come to a Stanley Cup Playoff spot since they last were in the annual tournament in 2016. That isn't to say that there weren't plenty of exciting moments throughout the season, and television numbers locally reflected that fact. 

According to Sports Business Journal, the Red Wings saw a 32% increase in viewership on Bally Sports Detroit: 

"Among the local winners this season were the Blackhawks, who had incredible buzz after drafting Bedard. Even with an injury sidelining Bedard for a key part of the season, games on NBC Sports Chicago jumped 35%. The Red Wings saw a 32% jump on Bally Sports Detroit, while the Flyers were up 30% on NBC Sports Philadelphia. Helping balance numbers were strong performances in the nation’s biggest media market. The Rangers’ strong season led to a 17% gain on MSG, while the Islanders jumped 16%." 

It's not only a positive sign for the Red Wings moving forward, but for the NHL as a whole, as this was the most-watched campaign stretched across the 32 teams in eight years for a League that is always looking to reach new audiences and create additional fans.

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