Are you a die-hard NHL fan wondering if ESPN+ is the ultimate hub for watching every game? So many streaming options and blackout restrictions can get a little confusing. Do not worry—we are here to break it down for you! This article will explore whether ESPN+ gives you full access to NHL action, what you can expect, and how to make the most of your subscription.
What Are the NHL and ESPN+?
Before diving into the details, let us ensure everyone is on the same page. Whether you are a lifelong hockey fan or just someone curious about streaming NHL games, we will break it all down in a way that is easy to follow.
NHL: The National Hockey League
The NHL, or National Hockey League, is the premier professional ice hockey league where the world’s best hockey teams and players compete for glory. With 32 teams from the U.S. and Canada, the league delivers fast-paced action and jaw-dropping skills on the ice. As a hockey fan, it is your ultimate destination as it showcases thrilling matchups, legendary rivalries, and top-tier talent from around the world.
ESPN+: Your Sports Streaming Hub
Think of ESPN+ as your online ticket to live sports and exclusive content. Launched a few years ago, this subscription-based streaming platform has grown into a go-to destination for fans of college football, basketball, PGA Tour events, UFC fights, and, of course, NHL games.
For hockey fans, ESPN+ has upped its game significantly. Once limited to select out-of-market games, the service now offers NHL Power Play, giving subscribers access to more than 1,000 live out-of-market matchups each season. It is a must-have for catching games that don’t air on regular TV, plus you get replays of every regular-season and playoff game.
Are All NHL Games Available on ESPN+?
No, not all NHL games are available on ESPN+. However, it is still a fantastic option for hockey fans looking for extensive coverage.
Here is how it works:
ESPN+ offers more than 1,000 out-of-market games through its NHL Power Play feature. These are games you wouldn’t normally see on your local channel. Therefore, ESPN+ gives fans access to teams and matchups they might otherwise miss. You can even watch the home or away team’s broadcast. This adds a personalized touch to your viewing experience.
But here is the catch—blackout rules apply.
This means games broadcast on national networks like TNT, ABC, or your local sports channel won’t be available live on ESPN+. To find out which games are available, check the NHL schedule on ESPN’S website. This shows exactly where each game is being aired.
In addition to live games, ESPN+ offers replays of every NHL regular season and playoff game, so you can catch the action even if you missed it live. While it may not cover everything, ESPN+ gives hockey fans a solid mix of live coverage and replays, making it a great tool for staying connected to the NHL.
Understanding NHL Coverage on ESPN+
“What You Get on ESPN+ vs. What’s Not Included”
How to Maximize Your NHL Viewing on ESPN+
Avoiding Blackout Restrictions
- Use NHL Power Play on ESPN+
With NHL Power Play, you get access to over 1,000 out-of-market games. This is the best way to watch teams that are not in your local market, avoiding many blackout issues altogether.
- Consider a VPN (Where Legal)
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a powerful tool to bypass local blackout restrictions and geo-blocks, allowing you to access ESPN+ content from anywhere. For example, if you are outside the U.S., connecting through a U.S. server with a VPN can make it appear as if you are streaming within the country. However, always check the legal guidelines in your area before using a VPN for streaming.
When choosing a VPN for ESPN+, look for one with:
- Extensive server networks (especially in the U.S.)
- Fast and reliable speeds for uninterrupted streaming
- Obfuscated servers to conceal VPN usage and prevent detection
- Security features like strong encryption and a no-logs policy
- Device compatibility with multiple simultaneous connections
- Other Workarounds for Local Blackouts
Explore alternate streaming services that carry your local team’s games, such as regional sports networks (RSNs). Pairing ESPN+ with a cable subscription or services like FuboTV might provide full coverage.
Tracking Game Availability
- Check the ESPN+ Schedule
The ESPN+ app or website has a regularly updated NHL schedule. This shows what games are available to stream and which ones are subject to blackouts.
- Visit NHL.com for Broadcast Details
NHL.com lists comprehensive broadcast schedules, including which games air on ESPN+, TNT, or regional networks. This helps you plan ahead and avoid missing out on your favorite matchups.
- Using Alerts
Set reminders in the ESPN+ app or through your streaming device to notify you when a game is about to start. You can follow these steps to set reminders for games:
Step 1: Open the ESPN+ app: Launch the app on your mobile or tablet device.
Step 2: Sign in: Make sure you’re signed into your ESPN+ account.
Step 3: Find the game: Search for the game you want to set a reminder for by browsing the sports or using the search bar.
Step 4: Select the game: Once you’ve found the game, tap on it to open the game details.
Step 5: Set a reminder: Look for the “Remind Me” or “Set Reminder” option. This can usually be found near the game time or under the options for the event.
Step 6: Confirm the reminder: Tap the option to confirm you want to be notified when the game is about to start. You will receive an alert or notification from ESPN+ when the game is near.
Conclusion
So, while not all NHL games are available on ESPN+, the service remains a goldmine for hockey fans with access to a vast range of out-of-market games and exclusive content. It provides access to over 1,000 out-of-market games each season, replays of every regular-season and playoff game, and exclusive content. Blackout restrictions may limit live access to some games, but with NHL Power Play, VPNs (where legal), and a bit of strategic planning, you can still enjoy 1,000+ live games each season and catch up on any action you might have missed. ESPN+ can be your ultimate companion for staying up-to-date with all the thrilling NHL action. Whether you are watching live or catching a replay, ESPN+ ensures you never miss out on the excitement of the NHL season!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does ESPN+ show every NHL game?
No, ESPN+ does not show every NHL game, but it still offers a fantastic selection for hockey fans! With access to over 1,000 out-of-market games through the NHL Power Play feature, you can catch matchups you will not see on your local channels. While nationally broadcasted games or those on regional sports networks (RSNs) are subject to blackout restrictions, ESPN+ makes up for it by offering replays of every regular-season and playoff game.
What are blackout restrictions on ESPN+?
Blackout restrictions are rules that prevent certain games from being streamed on ESPN+ due to broadcasting rights. If a game is being aired on a national network like TNT, ABC, or a local sports network, it may be blocked on ESPN+ for users in the relevant market area. This is done to protect the rights of the broadcasters who have exclusive access to those games in specific regions.
Can I watch my local team’s games on ESPN+?
In most cases, no. If your local team’s game is being broadcast by a national network (like ESPN, TNT, or ABC) or a regional sports network (RSN), it will be subject to blackout restrictions on ESPN+. You can still watch these games on the channel that holds broadcast rights in your region. However, NHL Power Play allows you to access out-of-market games featuring teams not in your local market.
What is NHL Power Play, and how is it related to ESPN+?
NHL Power Play is a feature on ESPN+ that grants subscribers access to over 1,000 out-of-market games during the NHL season. These are games you would not typically see on your local channels. NHL Power Play lets you watch teams from other regions, giving you a broader range of NHL coverage. It is an essential addition for hockey fans who want to follow more than just their local team, providing access to matchups that might otherwise be unavailable.
Is there a free trial for ESPN+ to watch NHL games?
Yes, ESPN+ typically offers a 7-day free trial for new users to watch NHL games.
