Penguins TV Ratings Through the Roof, UP 50%; Leads NHL

The Pittsburgh Penguins have finished first or second in the NHL TV ratings for the past decade, but they are really attracting viewers during the pandemic.

According to the Sports Business Journal, Penguins’ TV ratings are up 50%, and the team’s ratings are the highest in the NHL.

From the Pittsburgh Penguins release:

The Penguins’ rating of 7.88 for games on AT&T SportsNet leads all U.S.-based NHL teams through February 9, the publication reported.

Although the Penguins have ranked first or second in local TV ratings in the U.S. for the past decade, these numbers represent a 50 percent increase over last season.

They are even more impressive when you consider that two of the Penguins’ premier matchups – the season opener against the Philadelphia Flyers and a January 19 game against the Washington Capitals– were excusive national broadcasts and not shown on AT&T SportsNet.

“We have the greatest fans in hockey,” said James Santilli, the team’s Chief Experience Officer. “The loyalty and passion they show for the team is off the charts, as these numbers show. We salute them for this amazing support during a challenging time. We also want to thank our friends at AT&T SportsNet for their outstanding work in broadcasting our games.”

According to the Journal, NHL ratings are up significantly across the league.

The Penguins are 7-5-1 and tied for fourth place in the East Division. They’ve won two games in a row by rallying to beat the New York Islanders and coasting to their second regulation win on Sunday evening over the Washington Capitals.

The Penguins have six comeback wins, which is tied with the Nashville Predators. Perhaps the comebacks and extra time are forcing viewers to tune in longer.

The Penguins face the Washington Capitals again Tuesday night at PPG Paints Arena. PHN will have full coverage.