Sportsnet's TV ratings for the Oilers' Game 7 Cup Final revealed
The recently released television ratings for the Stanley Cup Final reveal a concerning trend for Sportsnet, despite the series stretching to an exciting Game 7.
This year's finals reached nearly 40% of Canadian households, managing to retain an average viewership of 7.5 million. However, the numbers didn't meet expectations, sparking debates about the waning interest in hockey among Canadians.
A report from the Globe and Mail, fueled by recent polls, highlighted that a significant 58% of Canadians admitted to not following the Stanley Cup Final closely, if at all. This is a stark contrast to the communal gatherings and national spirit usually expected during such a critical sporting event. The poll's findings are a sobering reminder that the national sport is possibly losing its grip on its most loyal audience.
The ratings saga tells a mixed story. On one hand, Game 7 managed to captivate nearly 40% of the Canadian populace, which, by any standard, represents a significant audience. On the other, when compared to historical data, such as the Leafs and Bruins Game 7 which fell short by just 3 million views, the figures are somewhat disappointing. The anticipation from networks was understandably higher, as expressed in the detailed updates from Sportsnet PR at
Why the declining interest? Several factors come into play. The structure of the playoffs this year may have contributed, with games in the final spaced out every three days and extending deep into June�a time when many prefer outdoor activities over watching TV indoors. Such scheduling decisions have not only affected viewer engagement but have also prompted discussions within the NHL about the possibility of concluding the season earlier in the year. This adjustment could potentially recapture the lost audience by avoiding the warm summer distractions.
Sportsnet's detailed report on the ratings underscores the challenges and still impressive reach of the Stanley Cup Final. The full breakdown can be explored through their official communication:
This scenario raises important questions for the future of broadcasting hockey. Will tweaking the NHL schedule to avoid the allure of summer be enough to bring back viewers, or does the issue lie deeper within Canada's changing cultural landscape? As networks, teams, and fans alike ponder these questions, one thing remains clear: the love for hockey is still alive, but it may need rekindling.
Source: Sportsnet
| POLL | ||
Have you watched the seventh game of the Cup Final? | ||
| Yes, Of course | 186 | 96.9 % |
| No | 5 | 2.6 % |
| See Results | 1 | 0.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
