ABC, ESPN Unveil HDTV Plans for Stanley Cup

[Gregg Lengling]

APRIL 17, 2003 -

Up to 11 National Hockey League playoff games will be available nationally in high-definition on ABC and ESPN, beginning with a conference semi-final game on April 28 at 8 p.m. on ESPN's new HD simulcast network.

In all, ESPN could offer six games in HD, including two Stanley Cup final games. ABC is scheduled to air up to five Stanley Cup final games, beginning at 8 p.m. on May 31.

"The NHL is often mentioned as the sport that will benefit most from the clarity and detail of HDTV," said Bryan Burns, ESPN vp, strategic business planning and development. "These telecasts will greatly enhance the hockey viewing experience and help grow ESPN HD."

Jon Litner, NHL executive vp and COO, added, "Viewers will see first-hand how HDTV creates a virtual in-arena experience for the television audience."

For the past two seasons, the NHL has offered a 65-game regular season HD package to national satellite subscribers on HD Net. The NHL also has six teams telecasting locally in high-definition.