Lots of views on rinkside-view telecasts

Of all the major sports, hockey probably benefits the most from HD technology. The greater resolution and screen shape make it easier to see more of the rink and watch plays develop, so you'd think the NHL would want its teams to have as many locally televised games shown in HD as possible.

But nooooo.

The Kings and Ducks will each have only 10 locally televised games available in HD this season, and all 10 are scheduled to be shown in what FS West and Prime Ticket call "rinkside view," with low-angle cameras that present limited views of the ice.

It's not ideal for hockey because you lose perspective and can't see plays developing as well as if the game is being shot from above. See for yourself Wednesday night on Prime Ticket, when the Ducks face the Red Wings at the Honda Center.

"We've heard from many concerned fans regarding Rinkside," said Aaron Teats, the Ducks' director of broadcasting.

"We are working with Fox to try and help our Rinkside broadcast evolve into something our fans will enjoy."

Mike Altieri, the Kings' vice president of communications and broadcasting, said the club has gotten a lot of feedback and is paying attention to all of it.

"This is an evolving process," he said. "The feedback we get from our fans will help guide us through the process."

-- Helene Elliott

Comments

[Fran Everton]

All NHL games should be in HD. Period. To only broadcast 10 Kings games and 10 Ducks games in HD this season is embarrassing. Shame on FS West and Prime Ticket. You are letting the local sports fans down in a big way. And that rinkside view blows. Why can't anyone in L.A. learn how to show a hockey game on TV properly?