Regional Broadcaster Expands Hockey Coverage With Multi-Station Agreement for Nashville Predators
FOX 5 Atlanta has signed an agreement with Scripps Sports to broadcast Nashville Predators games during the 2026-27 season as part of an expanded regional network covering 85 games across eight markets. The arrangement marks the return of NHL coverage to Atlanta, with games airing on FOX 5's subchannel and select matchups on the main broadcast channel, alongside comprehensive pregame and postgame programming. The regional network extends across southeastern markets including Memphis, Knoxville, Chattanooga, Louisville, and Lexington, with Nashville's NewsChannel 5 simulcasting at least four games.
This broadcast agreement represents a significant expansion of Scripps Sports' existing media rights partnership with the Nashville Predators. The arrangement spans eight southeastern markets with coverage totaling 85 games across the 2026-27 season, utilizing a combination of primary and secondary channels to maximize audience reach. The inclusion of comprehensive pre- and post-game programming underscores the networks' commitment to building fan engagement beyond game broadcasts themselves.
The deal carries particular significance for Atlanta, where professional hockey had been absent from local broadcasts following the relocation of the Thrashers franchise. By positioning Nashville Predators games on FOX 5's subchannel, the network can serve hockey enthusiasts while maintaining primary channel scheduling flexibility for other programming obligations.
Regional sports broadcasting consolidation through multi-market agreements may reshape how fans in secondary markets access professional sports content. Viewers in southeastern cities gain access to NHL programming previously unavailable locally, potentially growing the sport's fan base outside traditional hockey markets. Conversely, the concentration of rights with single broadcast entities could limit competitive bidding and viewer choice in future renewal cycles. The model's success may influence how other leagues structure media partnerships with regional broadcasters.