For hockey fans in the U.S., one of the biggest frustrations is being locked out of watching your favorite team just because you live in another market.
Out-of-market NHL packages solve that problem, giving fans a way to follow their team no matter where they live.
If you’re a diehard fan living far from home, here’s everything you need to know about how out-of-market packages work and why they’re worth it.
What does “out of market” mean for NHL fans?
When you hear “out of market,” it simply means your local TV stations and regional sports networks don’t carry your team’s games.
For example, if you’re a Chicago Blackhawks fan living in Florida, your cable package isn’t going to show most Blackhawks games. Out-of-market NHL packages are designed to fill that gap, giving you access to games you normally wouldn’t get.
How to watch NHL games out of market
- Stream: ESPN app
Signing up for an out-of-market package is simple. You can usually subscribe online through major streaming providers or directly via the ESPN app, which some of you may already have access to through your current cable provider. Once you’re signed up, you can stream games:
- On your smart TV through streaming apps
- On mobile devices like phones and tablets
- On laptops or desktops when you’re traveling
It’s designed to make watching out-of-market NHL games as easy as flipping on your local broadcast.
What’s included in an NHL out-of-market package
When you subscribe through the ESPN app, out-of-market NHL coverage is already included in your ESPN cost—there’s no additional charge for the package. That’s a big win for fans, since you’re not paying extra just to follow your team.
Here’s what you get with it:
- Stream multiple games in one place. The ESPN app puts nearly every matchup in one hub so you can easily switch between games.
- Most regular-season games included. The only ones you won’t see are those carried by Turner networks (TNT and TBS) and games blacked out locally.
- Live and on-demand replays. If you miss a game, you can watch it later on your own time.
- Access across devices. Whether you’re at home on your TV or on the go with your phone, you can watch seamlessly.
Why it’s worth it for NHL fans
If you live far from your favorite team—or just love watching hockey across the league—this setup is a game-changer.
You’re not paying extra for out-of-market access; it’s all rolled into your ESPN subscription, making it one of the best values in sports streaming.
Instead of hoping your team gets a rare national TV slot, you’ll be able to keep up with them every night, stay connected to the season, and watch marquee matchups all in one app.