The wait is over with a major viewing hurdle officially being solved.
DIRECTV and the NHL have finalized a multi-year agreement to carry Blue Note+ across DIRECTV's satellite, streaming, and U-verse platforms. The announcement comes as a massive relief for local fans and sports bars who have faced uncertainty following the opening weeks of stalled negotiations between the provider and the team's network.
If you are a DIRECTV subscriber, this is a massive win for you.
Where to find games on your TV
Blues fans will not need to change providers or sign up for an extra app to watch the games. Local Blues telecasts on Blue Note+ are available immediately on Channel 673 for DIRECTV satellite and streaming, and Channel 1747 for U-Verse high definition or Channel 747 for standard definition.
To access the channel seamlessly, satellite and streaming customers need to have the Choice package or higher, while U-Verse viewers will find it included in the U200 package and above.
Why this is a big win for the fanbase
When the Blues launched Blue Note+ to replace their former regional sports network setup, initial distribution was locked mostly between Spectrum and Prime Video. That left a massive chunk of local DIRECTV and U-Verse homes in limbo, forcing fans to consider either canceling their satellite service or paying an extra $19.99 a month for a streaming add on through Prime Video.
This agreement completely removes this friction. By bringing Blue Note+ directly into the standard channel guide once more, DIRECTV will preserve the traditional viewing experience fans have become accustomed to for years. The fans who just want to turn their TV on, hit a channel number, and watch the puck drop can breathe easy once more.
The deal is also included to cover DIRECTV For Business, so neighborhood bars, restaurants, and fitness clubs can safely put the game on for patrons without dealing with blackout restrictions.
The deal is part of a bigger, fan-first push by the NHL to bring regional TV broadcasts across various markets Carolina, Minnesota, and Columbus, and St. Louis.
"We are committed to keeping fans connected to their favorite teams and giving them more choice and flexibility in how they watch what they pay," said Rob Thun, Chief Content Officer at DIRECTV.
"Making it easy for fans to follow their teams is at the heart of what we do," added David Proper, NHL Chief Media Officer. "This agreement puts our clubs in four passionate hockey markets in front of more of their fans, and that’s a win for everyone who loves the game."
With DIRECTV joining Spectrum, Prime Video, and local over-the-air simulcasts, Blue Note+ will be available for fans of every viewing platform. Whether you have stayed with cable or have added the service to your Prime Video subscription, the St. Louis Blues are available for every fan.
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