Local ratings for Blues games on FS Midwest are down 25% this season, and NBCSN's ratings in the St. Louis market for Blues games "have followed the local lead," according to Dan Caesar of the ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH. The NBCSN numbers in the market have dropped just under 25%, which is a "massive decline," especially considering the team's 34-17-9 record this season. But it is the "track record of the team, with three consecutive first-round playoff exits following much regular-season success, that could be a key factor." FS Midwest had "experienced a rating increase for six consecutive years," culminating with a 4.9 local rating in St. Louis. The RSN's figure this season heading into Thursday night's game was 3.5 rating. Still, FSM Senior VP & GM Jack Donovan is "upbeat." He said, "We’re extremely happy with the ratings. They’re outstanding numbers, among the highest in the NHL" (ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH, 2/19).
BUFFALO SOLDIERS: SPORTSBUSINESS JOURNAL's Ourand & Thomas report the Sabres are poised to knock the Penguins "out of the NHL’s local TV ratings lead for the first time in seven seasons." Sabres games on MSG are averaging a 6.81 rating in Buffalo, up 55% from last year. That comes "despite Buffalo having an on-ice record that’s one of the worst in the Eastern Conference." The TV resurgence "comes at a particularly important time for the team," as its contract with MSG expires after the '16-17 season. Meanwhile, Penguins games on Root Sports Pittsburgh are averaging a 5.51 local rating, which represents a 19% drop. The only three NHL teams that have "posted bigger drops this season" are the Coyotes, Islanders and Blues. The Panthers continue to "be a trouble spot for the NHL," as FS Florida's 0.2 local rating in Miami-Ft. Lauderdale is a "low mark for the league" (SPORTSBUSINESS JOURNAL, 2/15 issue).
