DIRECTV Launches NHL Network

24-Hour Hockey Network Now Available In Both SD and HD on DIRECTV

November 1, 2007

DIRECTV hockey fans now will have access to the ultimate hockey sports lineup with the launch of the NHL Network(TM) in both SD and simulcast in HD on DIRECTV. NHL Network will broadcast 50 live regular-season games this season all in HD in addition to its daily live signature show, NHL on the Fly, classic games, documentaries, instructional shows, highlights and more. NHL Network is now available to DIRECTV customers subscribing to DIRECTV(R) CHOICE XTRA(TM) and above programming packages, as well as those with a subscription to NHL(R) CENTER ICE(R). "Our loyal DIRECTV hockey fans have been asking for more quality hockey content and the addition of the NHL Network in both SD and HD will give them all of the games they have been waiting for," said Derek Chang, executive vice president, Content Strategy and Development, DIRECTV, Inc. "As the undisputed HD leader, DIRECTV is now enabling fans to get up close and personal with their favorite NHL team and see every face off, body check, and slap shot in crystal-clear HD." "DIRECTV has been a great partner of the NHL since the launch of NHL CENTER ICE over a decade ago," said Jody Shapiro, senior vice president, Distribution, NHL. "Having DIRECTV offer NHL Network through their CHOICE XTRA(TM) package and above gives the majority of DIRECTV customers the chance to watch great hockey programming 24-hours a day." With the addition of NHL Network HD, DIRECTV now offers 74 full-time national HD channels, including 18 sports networks in HD, significantly more than any other television provider. DIRECTV will continue to expand its national HD lineup throughout the rest of the year and is expected to have up to 100 national HD channels by year-end. NHL Network in SD and HD will be available on DIRECTV viewer channel 215. NHL Network is the first network dedicated to the NHL, giving viewers an unprecedented 24-hour all-access pass to the most comprehensive hockey coverage, both on and off the ice, with live games, daily highlight shows, up-to-the-minute hockey news and exclusive hockey programming and special events.

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