TNT Open to Initial NHL Discussions, Says Silberwasser

TNT Sports has told league officials it wants to remain part of the NHL’s national-rights landscape. CEO Luis Silberwasser said the network is highly interested in extending its pact and will follow the commissioner’s timetable.

Timing and negotiation dynamics

Commissioner Gary Bettman has linked the NHL’s timing to the NFL’s media-rights talks. He has said the league could begin renewal talks early or wait until the NFL’s process concludes.

The NHL currently has two seasons left on its deals. TNT and ESPN hold exclusive negotiating windows toward the end of that term.

Networks weighing the NFL impact

Silberwasser told John Ourand of Filmogaz.com that TNT is ready to meet whenever Bettman wants to engage. He added the company will accommodate an early start or a later schedule.

Ourand earlier reported Bettman approached both TNT and ESPN about an early renewal. Networks have been hesitant to commit without clarity on the NFL’s asking price.

How the NFL talks affect media budgets

Reports suggest the NFL seeks a sizable rights-fee increase. CNBC’s Alex Sherman described a 50–60 percent fee hike as a midpoint in current market discussions.

Such a rise would push Paramount’s potential annual NFL tab above $3 billion. That shift would influence overall network budgets and decision-making.

Ownership changes could reshape negotiations

Paramount has a pending bid to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery. If regulators approve, Paramount would assume control of TNT.

Silberwasser emphasized the companies are operating independently until the deal closes. He said long-term decisions are being deferred until after the transaction is final.

Implications for the NHL

If the NHL waits until after the NFL talks, the league might face a new counterpart. Negotiations could then involve different leadership and budget priorities.

Other rights at stake

TNT also holds a Major League Baseball package that runs through 2028. Silberwasser said the network is keeping lines open with MLB about renewing that deal.

There is no sign MLB plans to accelerate negotiations. If Paramount completes its acquisition, future deals could be negotiated under new ownership.

The situation leaves several outcomes possible. TNT is open to initial NHL discussions, Silberwasser said, but timing depends on the broader rights-market shifts.