TV RIGHTS

 As one of the wierdos that still follows hockey, I can say two things. If you haven't been watching the NHL playoffs at all, you're really missing out. To this point, they have been more exciting and produced better match ups than the NBA playoffs have, and its still only the first round. Today and tomorrow showcase THREE game 7's, with the possibility of a fourth, all of which are series that should have ended before the weekend. Seems like the NHL couldn't have asked for a better draw. Second, and more importantly, within the last week the NHL renewed its impromptu TV contract with VS and NBC, established after the lockout and the leagues fallout with ESPN. While the NBC games are well done, and VS has begun to spread in to more and more homes, I really think the NHL messed this one up. Aside from college football, the NHl probably had the biggest chance to grow in the event of a NFL/ NBA lockout next season. While you have to appreciate them sticking with the companies that gave them a chance to get back up on their feet, passing on a renegotiation with ESPN probably cost them hundreds of millions of dollars. As it is now, VS is the main medium for hockey outside of your local team(s) telecast. with a nationally televised game on NBC every weekend once football ends. A strong showcase that does a good job of maximizing exposure of the leagues best. Still, a weekly prime time game on the most recognized sports network in the world seems a lot more lucrative. The NFL has HD, a million camera angles, and leads the pack in presentation. The NBA has the best TV coverage and two of the best announcer panels with TNT and ESPN. Hockey is similar to baseball -- for most people you have to be there. For baseball its the nostalgia, for hockey its the intensity. Hockey, live, is arguably the best sport there is, but it also loses the most on TV. You'd think then that Gary Bettman and the powers at be would want to try and solidify one of the weakest parts of their sport by pairing with the best and giving themselves more room to expand their sport. When opportunity presents itself, you have to take it. The NHL really missed theirs.