What Channel Are The Blues On
The roar of the crowd, a sea of blue jerseys shimmering under the arena lights, the electrifying anticipation before the puck drops... You can almost feel it, can’t you? The St. Louis Blues are about to take the ice, and you're scrambling, remote in hand, desperately trying to find the right channel. It’s a familiar feeling for any dedicated Blues fan.
This article serves as your comprehensive guide to navigating the broadcast landscape and ensuring you never miss a moment of Blues hockey. We'll break down the various networks, streaming options, and potential blackout restrictions, so you can cheer on your team with confidence.
The Local Broadcast Home: Bally Sports Midwest
For those residing in the St. Louis metropolitan area and surrounding regions, Bally Sports Midwest is typically your primary destination for Blues games. This regional sports network (RSN) holds the local broadcast rights for the majority of the team’s regular season matchups.
However, accessing Bally Sports Midwest isn't always straightforward. The availability depends heavily on your cable or satellite provider and your specific subscription package.
Checking Your Local Listings
The first step is to consult your television provider's channel guide. Look for Bally Sports Midwest (or BSMW). Most providers also offer online channel finders, where you can enter your zip code to confirm availability in your area.
If you can't find it, don't hesitate to contact your cable or satellite company directly. They can provide information on adding the channel to your current package or exploring alternative options.
The Streaming Conundrum: Bally Sports+
In recent years, the rise of streaming services has complicated the viewing experience for sports fans. Bally Sports+ is a streaming platform designed to offer direct access to Bally Sports RSNs, including Bally Sports Midwest.
This allows you to stream Blues games without a traditional cable or satellite subscription. However, Bally Sports+ subscriptions come with their own limitations and costs.
It's crucial to check the Bally Sports+ website for the latest pricing information and confirm that it carries Bally Sports Midwest in your specific location. Some regions may be subject to blackout restrictions.
National Broadcasts: When the Blues Go National
Throughout the season, the Blues will also appear on national networks like ESPN, TNT, and NHL Network. These broadcasts offer a wider audience and often feature marquee matchups.
These games are typically not subject to local blackout restrictions, even if Bally Sports Midwest also holds the rights. Keep an eye on the official NHL schedule and your local listings to identify these nationally televised games.
ESPN and TNT: Reaching a National Audience
ESPN and TNT are widely available through most cable and satellite providers, as well as numerous streaming services that offer live TV packages. These networks typically broadcast a selection of the league's most high-profile games each week.
For games appearing on ESPN+, a separate subscription is required. While ESPN+ offers a vast library of live sports content, it's essential to confirm that the specific Blues game you're interested in is available on the platform.
NHL Network: Hockey All the Time
NHL Network is a dedicated channel for hockey fans, offering live games, highlights, analysis, and more. It's often included in sports-focused cable and satellite packages, or available as an add-on.
This network provides in-depth coverage of the NHL, including occasional Blues games that may not be broadcast on other national networks. If you are a die-hard hockey fan, NHL Network can be a valuable addition to your channel lineup.
Blackout Restrictions: Understanding the Fine Print
Blackout restrictions are a common frustration for sports fans. These restrictions prevent certain games from being broadcast in a team's local market, even if the game is being shown on a national network.
The primary purpose of blackouts is to encourage fans to attend games in person, supporting the team and its local economy. However, they can be particularly annoying for fans who live in the broadcast area but are unable to make it to the arena.
Generally, nationally televised games are not subject to local blackouts. However, it's always wise to double-check your local listings to confirm whether a game is being blacked out in your area.
Beyond the Screen: Listening on the Radio
For those times when watching the game isn't possible, the radio provides a reliable alternative. Tune into the team's official radio broadcast to catch every play, hear insightful commentary, and stay connected to the action.
KMOX 1120 AM is the flagship radio station for the St. Louis Blues. You can listen live on the radio or stream the broadcast online via the KMOX website or app.
Blues radio broadcasts are also frequently available on the NHL app and other streaming services, providing another convenient way to follow the team on the go.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Blues Broadcasts
The broadcasting landscape is constantly evolving, with new streaming platforms and distribution models emerging all the time. It's likely that the way we watch Blues games will continue to change in the years to come.
Staying informed about these changes is crucial for ensuring you don't miss a single game. Keep an eye on announcements from the NHL, the Blues organization, and broadcast providers for updates on future broadcast arrangements.
Ultimately, regardless of the channel or platform, the passion for Blues hockey remains unwavering. So, gear up, tune in, and let’s go Blues!
