In Orlando, Paul Tenorio cited sources as saying that Orlando City SC "has opted out of its partnership" with WOFL-Fox and is "finalizing a deal" with WFTV-ABC for the '16 MLS season. The deal "will be more favorable financially for Orlando City, and the club is working to enhance its TV coverage to include more content, including a potential mid-week show as well as pre- and post-game shows around games broadcast locally." Orlando City announced a multiyear deal with WOFL last December, but sources said that the contract "had an opt-out clause." The new deal "would likely also end the team's state-wide deal" with FS Florida and Sun Sports. It is "not clear" if WFTV "paid a rights fee to Orlando City, however it would be unlikely that the new partnership would allow for the games to be shown across multiple stations" (ORLANDO SENTINEL, 12/24).
WINTER PLANS: NHL Network is set to announce its broadcast plans for NHL Winter Classic, which will include on-site coverage both before and after the game on New Year’s Day. The coverage, which will be anchored by Jamison Coyle, Jamie Hersch and Kathryn Tappen, will also include reporter EJ Hradek and former players Mike Rupp, Scott Stevens and Kevin Weekes. NHL Net will feature lineup analysis, weather updates, player interviews and game predictions in the run up to the game, as well as a post-game highlight show. It will also have live coverage from Gillette Stadium starting Wednesday, as well as for the Bruins and Canadiens practices on Thursday, and the Alumni Game (Ian Thomas, Staff Writer).
