Altice USA and MSG Networks have successfully reached an agreement to restore regional sports programming to the New York area. This development reintroduces live broadcasts of the NBA's New York Knicks and the NHL's New York Rangers, New York Islanders, Buffalo Sabres, and New Jersey Devils to Altice USA's Optimum cable service. The restoration of these channels follows a blackout that began on January 1, as Altice USA sought greater flexibility in packaging regional sports networks to manage costs for its subscribers.
The newly reached deal allows Altice USA to offer MSG Networks on its "Everything TV" tier, which is available to both new and existing customers at a monthly cost of $140. This tier provides a comprehensive package that includes sports, catering to viewers who prioritize access to live games. For those who prefer not to include sports in their viewing options, Altice USA now offers slimmer bundles at reduced prices.
The timing of the deal was crucial, as it was reached just in time for the anticipated Rangers vs. Sabres game at 5:30 p.m. ET. This agreement ensures that New York Knicks fans and other sports enthusiasts can once again enjoy watching their favorite teams play live games. Service has been promptly restored for Optimum cable subscribers, bringing back the excitement of New York's vibrant sports scene.
While the specific terms of the agreement between Altice USA and MSG Networks remain undisclosed, the deal provides Altice USA with the flexibility to manage its regional sports network offerings more effectively. This strategic move aligns with the broader industry trend where pay TV operators are restructuring their packages to accommodate varying consumer preferences and control costs.
Altice USA, the fourth-largest U.S. cable TV provider, had previously taken a firm stand on negotiating terms with regional sports networks, a move driven by the need to offer competitive pricing to its customers. By allowing MSG Networks to be placed in a dedicated tier, Altice USA can maintain cost efficiency while catering to sports fans who demand comprehensive sports coverage.