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NHL says the 2026 playoffs is the most-watched on record, averaging 1.8 million viewers
- On Tuesday, the NHL announced the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs averaged 1.8 million viewers in the U.S., surpassing the 1996 record of 1.56 million and marking a 68% increase over last year.
- Several factors contributed to the spike: Nielsen's updated viewer counting methods, the 4 Nations Face-Off and Olympics boosting hockey's appeal among women, and shows like 'Heated Rivalry' and 'Off Campus' expanding the audience.
- Carolina defeated Vegas in six games during the Stanley Cup Final, achieving record viewership despite the absence of several major hockey markets in the country.
- ESPN reported the Final was the most-watched championship series since 2019, confirming sustained postseason interest across the league.
- This spring's viewership data illustrates a shift in audience demographics, with increased engagement from new media and tournaments positioning the NHL for sustained market growth.
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources17
Leaning Left7Leaning Right0Center7Last UpdatedBias Distribution50% Left, 50% Center
Bias Distribution
- 50% of the sources lean Left, 50% of the sources are Center
50% Center
L 50%
C 50%
Factuality
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