Staci Kramer has a writeup of the NHL’s new player, original content and ad sales strategy. The NHL has been far more open with its content than other pro sports league, and they have needed to be since they have had a lot harder time getting their content on TV.
The addition of original content and improved sponsorship options signals the NHL’s focus on increasing revenue through ad-supported as opposed to subscription means. NeuLion which manages the NHL’s broadband initiative has historically focused on selling and delivering content to custom set-top boxes on a subscription basis, something they have not done so far for the NHL.