NHL becomes official betting partner of MGM
NHL to provide “previously unseen” game data to help MGM offer unique betting experiences
MGM Resorts has agreed a deal to become the official betting partner of the NHL, in a similar deal to the one announced by the operator and the NBA earlier this year.
The multi-year deal will see MGM Resorts receive access to “previously unseen” NHL proprietary data that will let MGM offer “interactive fan engagement and betting opportunities”.
The NHL said the new data is still under development and will be available for next season, although the MGM deal is not exclusive.
MGM will also be able to market to the NHL’s fan database and use the NHL’s marquee events to showcase a variety of offerings across its portfolio.
“The new sports betting landscape presents a unique opportunity for fan engagement utilizing technology and data that are exclusive to our League,” said NHL commissioner Gary Bettman.
Bettman said owning unique, proprietary data was a powerful tool in the regulated betting market.
He added: “As a leading global gaming operator and entertainment company, MGM Resorts is the perfect partner for us to begin our transformative entry into this space. Fan engagement, technological advancement and innovation are paramount to our progressive approach and will be at the forefront of everything we do.”
Gary Bettman and Jim Murren of MGM are here pic.twitter.com/Jha9TUvEn5
— Bob Williams (@WilliamsBob75) October 29, 2018
The NHL joins the NBA in being an official betting partner of MGM, although MGM CEO Jim Murren said the two deals were unique.
“We couldn’t be more excited to enter into this historic partnership with the NHL,” said Murren.
“The League is home to some of the most exciting action in sports, and we are thrilled to join with them to create new immersive and exhilarating experiences for hockey fans.
“Combining MGM Resorts’ world-class sports betting operations and technology with the NHL’s top-level competition, iconic brands and cutting-edge data will further transform the rapidly growing sports betting marketplace and solidify our position at the forefront of the industry.”
The deal will also benefit GVC, who has partnered with MGM to run a US sports betting JV.