Why are there blackouts?
Blackout restrictions exist to protect the local television telecasters of each NHL game in the local markets of the teams. Blackouts are not based on arena sell-outs. Keep in mind that blackout policies and restrictions are different for every sports package that your system may carry. (Remember, if you ONLY want to watch your home team, then NHL CENTER ICE should not be purchased. NHL CENTER ICE is designed for the NHL fan who wants to see NHL games other than just those which involve their local team).

When am I blacked out on NHL® CENTER ICE®?
Generally, you are blacked out of games on NHL Center Ice based on a number of factors, including:

1. Your local team is televising on a local over-the-air station and you are located within that station's signal.
2. Your local team is televising on a local regional sports network and your cable or satellite system falls within the distribution for that local regional sports network (regardless of whether your cable or satellite system actually carries that regional sports network).
3. There is no local television coverage of your local team.
4. The game is being televised nationally.