What's Happening?
The Columbus Blue Jackets have announced that starting with the 2026-27 NHL season, all their games will be simulcast on both television and radio. This new format will allow fans to experience the same live game coverage whether they are watching on TV
or listening on the radio. The audio feed from the television broadcast will be used for the radio network, including the flagship station 97.1 The Fan in Columbus. The broadcast team will feature Steve Mears on play-by-play and former Blue Jacket Jody Shelley providing color analysis. This change comes as part of the team's efforts to enhance fan engagement and accessibility.
Why It's Important?
The decision to simulcast games on both TV and radio is a strategic move to unify the Blue Jackets' broadcasting approach, potentially increasing their reach and accessibility to fans. By providing consistent coverage across platforms, the team can ensure that fans have a seamless experience regardless of how they choose to follow the games. This move could also attract new listeners and viewers, thereby expanding the team's fan base. Additionally, the inclusion of experienced broadcasters like Steve Mears and Jody Shelley is likely to enhance the quality of the commentary, providing fans with expert insights and analysis.
