A New Era for Regional Sports Streaming
The 2026‑27 season will mark a decisive turn in how New York’s professional sports are consumed, as DAZN has secured exclusive streaming rights for the Knicks, the Yankees and five additional area franchises. The arrangement replaces the short‑lived Gotham Sports App, which had been the primary distributor of these games.
The transition comes amid a period of upheaval in the regional sports network (RSN) sector. Main Street Sports Group ceased operations earlier this year, and MSG Networks has been restructuring its contracts to stay afloat. Industry observers note that the timing aligns with the Knicks’ recent NBA championship, the Yankees’ playoff push and the broader push to modernize sports consumption.
While the exact launch date has not been finalized, the change is expected to unfold sometime during the 2026‑27 season. Until then, the Gotham Sports App will continue to carry the games, after which DAZN will take over distribution. Subscribers who already receive MSG Networks and YES Network through their cable packages will gain access to DAZN’s library, including on‑demand content and additional programming.
The deal reflects a strategic partnership highlighted by YES Network President Jon Litner, who said the collaboration with DAZN underscores a commitment to elevate the streaming experience for subscribers. Kevin Marotta, MSG Networks’ senior vice president of content and marketing, added that the partnership is a source of excitement for the organization.
Beyond the headline teams, the agreement encompasses a roster of recent successes: the Rangers, Nets and Devils each added top draft picks, while the Sabres celebrated their first playoff appearance in fifteen years and secured the fourth overall selection in the NHL draft. These developments illustrate a vibrant sports landscape that DAZN aims to capture.
For DAZN, the arrangement represents the latest step in its ambition to build a stronger foothold in the United States market. By integrating with existing cable subscriptions, the platform hopes to attract a wider audience hungry for flexible, on‑demand sports content.