My theory based on nothing but conjecture is that the Buffalo area, which somehow seemed to carry US viewership, has finally had it with the Sabres enough that they tune out the NHL entirely.
On a more serious note, the Internet and streaming that people thought would open up everything to more viewers seemed to not have that effect. Maybe not surprising given that a) corporations will ruin any tech for consumers to monetise it and b) other entertainment options have access to the same tech. I also wonder what impact pirated streams have? I tend to think it's negligible given most people, especially the older target audience, will gladly pay for the ease of having games on with a couple button pushes. However, I'm not sure how much ESPN+ etc. complicates things for people still used to just using their remote control. It seems if you're willing to take some minor inconveniences (i.e. hooking up your laptop to the TV or similar), pirated streams might actually be easier to use at the moment not to mention cheaper. I haven't paid to watch the NHL in a while (is that OK to post here?) just because blackout rules and different providers make it a hassle.
) Would love to do the same this year. Frustrating.
