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Chicago Blackhawks ownership comes forward with a large statement that could change it all in the 2025 season

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Sam Walker
April 22, 2025 (11:00)

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The Chicago Blackhawks withheld fans from watching their youthful on-ice product this past season, making the switch from NBC Sports to Chicago Sports Network, and it's drawn loads of backlash.

There is a lot of optimism in the city of Chicago regarding this young Blackhawks roster, especially among fans.

But thousands can't even watch the game following the launch of Chicago Sports Network, which requires fans to download a mobile app and pay a premium subscription price to watch their team.

Their first season since the launch has gone far from profitable; the Chicago White Sox and Blackhawks were both hurt by this 'next generation' streaming deal signed by CHSN.

All season, the new network and the Blackhawks were not discolsing their viewership ratings.

On Monday, it was quite evident as to why they've avoided doing so, as their numbers in viewership are down a whopping 78 percent since last season, which is equivelent to 40,000 less people.

This has lead to the CEO of the Chicago Blackhawks, Danny Wirtz, sending a clear message to fans of the team.

«At the end of the day, the availability of our games on TV this past season was unacceptable - and our fans deserve better,» Wirtz said. «I am focused on finding potential solutions for next season with our partners at CHSN. We are about to celebrate 100 years of hockey as well as usher in the next generation on the ice. I am committed to ensuring our fans can see that.»

In Wirtz we trust? With not much faith in the organization, we can only hope the ownership secure a legitimate deal that can result in fans in the city being able to watch their favorite teams.

Previously on Chicago Hockey Insider

Chicago Blackhawks set to part ways with three specific players this NHL off-season

NHL officiating under scrunity in Game 1 of Oilers-Kings series for controversial ruling

Connor Bedard's Top 5 Plays From the 2024-2025 Season

POLL
AVRIL 22 \| 231 ANSWERS Chicago Blackhawks ownership comes forward with a large statement that could change it all in the 2025 season How was your experience with Chicago Sports Network this season?
Great	41	17.7 %
Not good	37	16 %
I never downloaded it	64	27.7 %
They aren't getting my money anytime soon	89	38.5 %
List of polls

Chicago Blackhawks ownership comes forward with a large statement that could change it all in the 2025 season

The Chicago Blackhawks withheld fans from watching their youthful on-ice product this past season, making the switch from NBC Sports to Chicago Sports Network, and it's drawn loads of backlash.

How was your experience with Chicago Sports Network this season?