DirecTV and Scripps Local Media Dispute Threatens Las Vegas Stanley Cup Final Viewership
A contract dispute between DirecTV and Scripps Local Media has resulted in KTNV-TV, Channel 13, going dark on DirecTV. This development affects Las Vegas residents' ability to watch the Stanley Cup Final, as Channel 13 is one of Scripps' 17 ABC affiliates. The blackout began on Sunday, with the dispute centered around retransmission fees, which are the charges local stations impose on TV providers to carry their content. The timing of this dispute is particularly problematic for sports fans, as the Stanley Cup Final between the Vegas Golden Knights and the Carolina Hurricanes is set to begin on Tuesday, with coverage on ABC. Additionally, the NBA Finals are scheduled to start on Wednesday, also on ABC. DirecTV has criticized Scripps for demanding high rates for programming that is available for free over-the-air and through various streaming apps. In response, Scripps has accused DirecTV of removing trusted local news and sports programming from its lineup. 
