Since MLB Network took over the operation of NHL Network this season, we’ve seen small examples of synergy from MLB Advanced Media. For one, NHL Network moved from Toronto to the MLB Network studios in Secaucus, NJ. Two, there has been some sharing of talent between the two networks, for instance MLB Network’s Kelly Nash has filled in on NHL Network’s On the Fly program. And the biggest example will be this week as the two networks will be cross-promoting the NHL Stadium Series game at Coors Field this Saturday.
MLB Network has built a rink that now sits at Studio 42 which is normally used for MLB Tonight during the baseball season. We have a picture for you:
According to NHL Network, it’s a 20′ x 40′ rink and it debuted Tuesday on MLB Network’s Hot Stove as Kevin Weeks of NHLN and Harold Reynolds of MLBN showed it off. It will be seen tonight on MLB Tonight as Sean Casey of MLBN and Mike Rupp of NHLN will hold a shooting contest. And the rink will be seen on NHL Network’s programs such as NHL Live, NHL Tonight and On the Fly starting today through Friday night.
Other segments showcasing the rink will show the difference of running into an outfield wall and being checked into the boards and the difference to trying to hit a 100 mph fastball and stopping a 100 mph slap shot.
While it seems to be a rather innocent cross-promotion, it’s a way for MLB Network and MLB Advanced Media to increase the awareness of NHL Network by bringing talent into MLBN and promoting one of the NHL’s showcases. We’ll see if it leads to increased viewership for NHL Network and for more cross-promotion opportunities between the two networks.
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