Canadian hockey enthusiasts are expressing growing discontent after Rogers announced a substantial increase in the price of its Sportsnet+ streaming platform.
For the upcoming 2026‑27 NHL season, subscribers will be charged $344, up from $329 the previous year, marking a 30 percent rise that follows a series of annual hikes over the past two years.
The service, launched as a cord‑cutting alternative to traditional cable, offers national broadcasts, regional games and full coverage of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, but its premium tiers now cost nearly $30 per month for the Standard plan and over $40 for the Premium version.
Fan Reaction and Market Implications
Fans frequently find themselves needing additional subscriptions such as Amazon Prime Video or TSN to bypass regional blackouts, a requirement imposed by NHL broadcasting contracts rather than by Rogers itself.
While Sportsnet+ delivers reliable high‑definition streams and comprehensive coverage of marquee events, the escalating costs and access restrictions have driven many viewers toward unauthorized streaming options.
The situation underscores a broader tension between content providers and audiences, as leagues negotiate increasingly complex distribution deals that can limit consumer choice and increase expenses.