Stanley Cup Final Rematch Ratings Decline, but Viewer Engagement Soars: A Recap
Television ratings for the Stanley Cup Final rematch between the Florida Panthers and Edmonton Oilers saw a decline compared to their previous matchup. The game drew an average of 2.5 million viewers on TNT, with 2.8 million tuning in for the Panthers' series-clinching Game 6 victory. This number is lower than last year's final, which was broadcast on ABC, marking the lowest since the Tampa Bay versus Montreal final in 2021.
Despite the decline in TV ratings, there was a 15% increase in the share of viewers from TNT's first Cup final in 2023 when Vegas defeated Florida. Additionally, social media engagements on NHL content saw a 32% increase over the course of the playoffs. In Canada, an average of 3.8 million viewers watched the final on Sportsnet, with Connor McDavid vying for his first championship. The average viewership for the playoffs in Canada also saw a 6% increase from the previous year.
Comparatively, the ratings for the Stanley Cup Final were lower than the 4 Nations Face-Off in February, an international competition featuring the NHL's top players. The final between the U.S. and Canada garnered significant viewership, with 9.3 million people in the U.S. and 10.7 million in Canada tuning in. The round-robin games leading up to the final also had a strong viewership, averaging 4.6 million viewers in North America.
In conclusion, while the Stanley Cup Final rematch between the Florida Panthers and Edmonton Oilers saw a decline in TV ratings compared to previous years, there were notable increases in viewer engagement and social media interactions throughout the playoffs. The international competition, such as the 4 Nations Face-Off, continues to draw significant viewership, showcasing the popularity of hockey on a global scale.