Gary Bettman's pockets are hurting after NHL televised viewership numbers get revealed
Photo credit: Ed Mulholland-Imagn Images
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman likely got a bit uncomfortable when the numbers from the TV ratings of the first few games of the new season came through.
The new season has officially begun, and there have already been multiple thrilling contests and multi-goal leads blown by their respective teams, and we're only a week into the new schedule.
But when the numbers from the nationally televised games were released, they likely caused some discomfort for Commissioner Gary Bettman.
During Wednesday night's game between the Vegas Golden Knights and Los Angeles Kings, the total viewership was down nearly 25%.
"Wednesday's Kings-Golden Knights game on TNT averaged 240,000 viewers-down 24% from last year & the least-watched TNT opening-night game on record.
Overall, the doubleheader averaged 372,000 viewers - down 5% from last year and TNT's least-watched opening night on record."
Overall, the doubleheader averaged 372,000 viewers - down 5% from last year and TNT's least-watched opening night on record."
Even though the Capitals and Bruins game drew slightly higher numbers than the Rangers and Penguins' opener from last year, it was still the lowest-rated opening game broadcast on TNT before the following Golden Knights and Kings game.
For those who haven't seen:
Wednesday's Bruins-Capitals game on TNT averaged 516,000 viewers - up 10% from Rangers-Penguins last year (467K), but the lowest opening game for TNT otherwise.
Wednesday's Bruins-Capitals game on TNT averaged 516,000 viewers - up 10% from Rangers-Penguins last year (467K), but the lowest opening game for TNT otherwise.
Gary Bettman has caught criticism despite growing the game
Bettman has drawn the wrath of hockey fans everywhere for expansion into non-traditional areas, and there have even been reports that the NHL is looking to expand even further-even back to Atlanta for what would be a 3rd time.
Bettman also has many defenders, who say that he's played an integral part in helping to grow the game and create more fans.
But based on the latest TV broadcast numbers, it can't be a good feeling for Bettman.
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