Two of the highest-profile NHL playoff series in recent memory failed to give NBC a boost in the overnights over the weekend.
Game 2 of the Rangers/Bruins second round Stanley Cup playoff series earned a 1.9 overnight rating on NBC Sunday afternoon, even with Devils/Flyers Game 1 last year (1.9), but up 19% from Red Wings/Sharks Game 2 in 2011 (1.6).
The 1.9 is the highest of the postseason for the NHL on NBC.
On Saturday, Game 2 between the Red Wings and Blackhawks drew a 1.4 overnight — down a tick from both Rangers/Capitals Game 1 last year (1.5) and Bruins/Flyers Game 1 in 2011 (1.5).
Keep in mind Red Wings/Blackhawks began at 1 PM ET to accommodate NBC’s coverage of The Preakness Stakes. Last year’s game started at 3 PM.
So far, four of the five Stanley Cup playoff windows on NBC have had declines in overnight ratings compared to last year.
(Weekend overnights from Sports Business Daily)
