Okay, hockey fans! Let's face it, clinging to cable these days is like using a flip phone – nostalgic, maybe, but definitely not the best way to catch all the action.
You want to witness McDavid's magic, Matthews' snipes, and maybe even a good ol' fashioned donnybrook without emptying your wallet, right?
Well, fear not, because ditching cable doesn't mean missing out on the sweet, sweet sound of the puck hitting the back of the net!
Streaming Services: Your New Best Friend
Think of streaming services as your personal Zamboni, smoothing out all the bumps in the road to hockey bliss. There are a bunch of them out there, each with its own flavor.
ESPN+
ESPN+ is like the all-you-can-eat buffet of sports streaming. You get a ton of games – not every single NHL game, but a healthy serving, especially if you're a fan of multiple teams.
Plus, it’s got a bunch of other sports stuff too, so if you accidentally stumble upon a curling match, don't say I didn't warn you! It’s great option if you want to watch NHL games.
Hulu + Live TV (or YouTube TV)
These are your "full cable replacement" options. They're a bit pricier, but they offer a wide range of channels, including those that broadcast national NHL games like ESPN, TNT, and NHL Network.
Imagine it as building your own cable package, but without the ancient set-top box and the soul-crushing customer service calls. With Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV you have many choices to watch NHL games.
NHL Center Ice (or NHL.TV – If it Comes Back!)
This used to be the go-to for watching out-of-market games. It’s like having a secret decoder ring that unlocks hockey games from across the continent.
However, its future is a bit uncertain, so keep an eye out for updates on its availability! It would be shame to lost the opportunity to watch NHL games.
Other Tricks of the Trade
Alright, so you've got your streaming sorted. But here are a few extra moves to keep up your sleeve, just in case.
The Antenna: Your Old-School Ally
Believe it or not, a good old-fashioned antenna can still pull in local channels, which might occasionally broadcast games, especially if your local team is doing well (or shockingly badly!).
It's like finding a twenty in your old jeans – a delightful surprise! With the antenna you have a chance to watch NHL games.
Befriend Someone with Cable (Strategically!)
Okay, this one requires a little social finesse. Find a friend or family member who still clings to cable like a life raft and… well, be a good friend! Offer to bring snacks, help with chores, anything to earn a spot on their couch during game night.
Just remember, nobody likes a freeloader, so contribute to the cause! Be a friend to watch NHL games.
Final Buzzer
So there you have it! Ditching cable doesn't mean missing out on the bone-crunching hits and highlight-reel goals. It just means getting a little creative.
With a bit of research and maybe a sprinkle of strategic friendship, you can watch all the NHL games you want, without breaking the bank or losing your sanity dealing with cable companies.
Now go forth and enjoy the game!
