The NHL is set to begin its new season on October 4 in Prague, with teams currently engaged in preseason matches. Notably, the Buffalo Sabres will play an exhibition game in Munich on September 27. Despite the modest financial returns from these exhibition games, the league has seen record revenues over the past few seasons, projected to reach $6.2 billion for the 2023/24 season.
All 32 NHL teams are privately owned, which means they are not obliged to disclose annual financial reports. However, expert estimates indicate a significant economic recovery following the pandemic's impact. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman has stated that the league has stabilized its business and is experiencing a renaissance in revenue generation.
In comparison to other major leagues, the NFL earns three times more annually than the NHL, with projected revenues of $18.6 billion. The NHL's revenue sources differ significantly; for instance, ticket sales account for 44% of total income, highlighting the league's reliance on in-person attendance. The 2023/24 season has already set attendance records, with a total of 22.56 million spectators and an average arena occupancy of 97%.
Additionally, sponsorship income has doubled in the past four years, driven by the introduction of jersey advertisements and digital boards, which have collectively increased league revenues from sponsors to approximately $1.4 billion. As the league prepares for new broadcasting deals in the coming years, experts predict a potential annual revenue increase to $10 billion by the end of the decade.