NEW YORK, Oct. 1, 2010 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Despite MSG Media's attempts since early this year to engage DISH Network in good faith negotiations, no agreement was reached for DISH Network to continue to carry MSG Network and MSG Plus. Therefore, as of midnight last night, DISH is no longer carrying the networks on its channel lineup, and New York area sports fans will now miss exclusive live coverage of the Knicks, Rangers, Islanders, Devils and Sabres.
"We are disappointed with DISH's decision to drop MSG Network and MSG Plus. DISH has rejected numerous fair and reasonable proposals at rates, terms and conditions consistent with our deals with other operators. Instead of negotiating for a new agreement, DISH has decided to deprive their customers of our award-winning networks and their favorite New York teams," said Dan Ronayne, executive vice president and general manager, MSG Networks. "We call on DISH to come to the negotiating table and reconsider our good faith proposals. We encourage DISH subscribers to call 1-877-616-4MSG or visit www.iwantmsg.com for more information, including a list of other providers in their area that carry MSG and MSG Plus."
MSG and MSG Plus will telecast nearly 400 live NBA and NHL games of the Knicks, Rangers, Devils, Islanders and Sabres this season. Opening Night for the Devils and Sabres is October 8th, while the Rangers and Islanders begin the 2010-11 campaign on October 9th. The new look Knicks, featuring All-Star Amar'e Stoudemire, begin the regular season on October 27th. Stoudemire's first game in a Knicks uniform is a preseason game from Milan, Italy on October 3rd.
In addition to the openings of the NHL and NBA seasons, MSG recently launched WFAN's "Boomer & Carton" show, which is telecast live during the week from 6-10am, as well as five new Giants football programs. MSG and MSG Plus are two of the most robust Regional Sports Networks in America, as well as the most highly decorated in the New York area. The networks have won 48 New York Emmy Awards over the past three years, more than any other network or station.
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