The National Hockey League and Major League Baseball Advanced Media are now teammates, announcing a “groundbreaking” digital media rights partnership between the two organizations. The six-year deal will look to launch a fully integrated global hub of digital content that includes video, live game streaming, social media, fantasy, apps, along with statistical and analytical content. In addition it hands MLBAM the rights to distribute live out-of-market games, including through the NHL GameCenter LIVE and NHL Center Ice subscription services. Through the agreement, MLBAM will now take over NHL.com, including the League’s seven native language sites, Club websites and operate NHL apps. On the TV front, MLB Network will now offer studio space and production resources for the NHL Network for distribution in the United States and certain international markets. MLBAM expects to fully launch its NHL presence in January 2016.

“As the market leader, MLBAM is uniquely qualified to assist us in giving hockey fans a richer, more immersive experience with the game,” said NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman. “MLBAM is also the right partner because they have the expertise to help us deliver new and exciting products to our fans, who crave compelling digital content. We couldn’t have North America better covered than with the power of NBC, Rogers, TVA and MLBAM – an incredible convergence of technical, creative and production talent that is great news for our fans.”

“It is an honor for Major League Baseball to stand alongside the National Hockey League on this joint initiative,” said MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred. “All of us in sports share a desire to distribute our games and tell our stories as widely and broadly as possible. Because of our own experiences in delivering baseball to its loyal fans, MLB Advanced Media is uniquely suited to excel in a partnership of this magnitude.”