Prime Video could be set to become the new streaming home of MLB, NBA and NHL games from Bally Sports. This is according to a new report by the New York Post, which credits unnamed “sources close to the situation” for the information.
According to the report, Amazon is currently in “late-stage talks” to stream Bally Sports broadcasts of more than 25 MLB, NHL and NBA teams. If everything unfolds as described, the option to stream a local team could become available through Prime Video as early as next month, and cost $20 a month.
While a deal would make it even easier for Prime members and Prime Video subscribers to stream their local teams without a live TV plan, the deal isn’t expected to affect the availability of Bally Sports broadcasts. In other words, live TV subscribers will still be able to stream the same games with their live TV package.
Furthermore, the deal isn’t expected to be an exclusive deal, allowing Bally Sports to strike similar deals with other providers, if desired.
Earlier this year, Amazon and Diamond Sports agreed a deal. However, after reports emerged last week suggesting Amazon had walked back on a $115 million equity investment, there had been some concern that the whole deal could be in jeopardy.
This is likely to be a deal that suits both parties. While an agreement would help Amazon to further cement its position as a major sports streaming player, it could also make it easier for Diamond Sports to agree new deals with teams. Not to mention, Prime’s infrastructure and existing subscriber base may also make it easier for Bally Sports to quickly grow its own subscriber base.
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