Sportsnet and Canucks sign 5-year deal for exclusive radio rights

Rogers Radio has officially entered into an exclusive five-year broadcasting agreement with the Canucks.

“The Canucks are the most sought-after content in the Vancouver market, and we are excited to expand our Sportsnet offering to deliver live Canucks coverage on all platforms,” said Scott Moore, president of Sportsnet, Rogers Media.

“Vancouver is a top Canadian market filled with loyal and knowledgeable sports fans, and is a natural fit to expand our Sportsnet offering.”

On Thursday, Rogers announced Sportsnet will deliver all Canucks games on Rogers radio beginning with the 2017/18 NHL season.

Rogers Radio is very excited to have entered into a 5 year agreement with the #Canucks for exclusive radio rights beginning next season.

— Rick Dhaliwal (@DhaliwalSports) March 9, 2017

This new deal augments their current 10-year multimedia relationship that includes Canucks coverage on Sportsnet TV, mobile and online.

Beginning next season, Sportsnet will have all 82 Canucks games available live on TV, Radio, Sportsnet NOW, and Rogers NHL GameCentre LIVE.

“Sportsnet has an amazing success story of building relationships with fans and this new partnership will bring listeners in the Lower Mainland and across BC closer than ever to the Canucks,” said Jeff Stipec, chief operating officer of Canucks Sports and Entertainment.

“We are grateful to have an exceptional relationship with Sportsnet and this is a perfect step to strengthen our connection to our fans as we continue to develop an exciting team, both on and off the ice.”

Rogers radio brands are “incredibly strong” in Vancouver, said Julie Adam, senior vice president of Radio, Rogers Media. “We are excited to build on our premium content with the acquisition of the Canucks games.”

Rogers already owns JACK and KiSS on the FM dial, as well News 1130 on the AM side of things.

The CRTC allows companies to own two stations per frequency, meaning Rogers could purchase an AM station and convert it to all-sports.