MSG Network has seen major gains for the start of the New York Rangers’ playoff run. In other news, local ratings more-than-doubled for the Atlanta Hawks’ playoff opener, and the Kansas City Royals have set back-to-back local ratings records.
Rangers’ First Round Up Big on MSG Networks
- Coverage of the Rangers/Penguins Stanley Cup playoff series has averaged a 4.69 rating on the MSG Networks in New York City, up 69% from the comparable point of last postseason. In particular, Tuesday’s Game 3 combined for a 4.84 rating on MSG and MSG+, and last Thursday’s Game 1 drew a 4.54. Game 2 aired on NBC. (MSG [1], [2])
Local Ratings Double For Hawks’ Playoff Opener
- Sunday’s Game 1 of the Nets/Hawks NBA playoff series drew a combined 9.77 rating across SportSouth and TNT in the Atlanta market, up 105% from Hawks/Pacers Game 1 on SportSouth and ESPN last year (4.77). While the Hawks’ improved record is the overwhelming reason for the increase, keep in mind last year’s game aired on a Saturday night. (AJC)
Back-to-Back Ratings Records For Royals
- Fox Sports Kansas City drew a 15.9 rating for Tuesday’s Twins/Royals Major League Baseball game, the network’s highest rating ever for a Royals telecast. The previous record was set just two days earlier by Athletics/Royals, which drew a 14.6. Four of the five highest rated Royals telecasts on FSKC have taken place in the past week. (kansascity.com)
