- Chicago Blackhawks partner with Kalshi in predictions markets
- NHL partnered with Kalshi and Polymarket in October
- Other leagues have resisted
The NHL’s Chicago Blackhawks and predictions market exchange Kalshi, announced a marketing partnership this week. The Blackhawks have named Kalshi as their official predictions market partner, making them the first pro sports team in North America to make a deal with a prediction market platform.
Blackhawks and NHL First To Embrace Prediction Markets
The marketing deal allows both sides to share intellectual property and to cross-promote on social media as early as this week. The Hawks will also promote Kalshi at the United Center and during broadcasts.
“We’re proud to share an innovative mindset with Kalshi,” said Blackhawks Executive Vice President of Revenue and Strategy Matt Gray. “Prediction markets are changing how fans interact with sports – moving from passive viewing to informed, engaged participation, and we’re excited to explore that with our fans during this Centennial season.”
“Prediction markets are changing how fans interact with sports – moving from passive viewing to informed, engaged participation, and we’re excited to explore that with our fans during this Centennial season.” — Matt Gray, Blackhawks Executive Vice President of Revenue and Strategy.
The Blackhawks’ news comes on the heels of the NHL announcing a multi-year deal with both Kalshi and Polymarket in October within the USA. The deal gave the two companies access to NHL proprietary data as well as the use of logos and marketing exposure during live broadcasts.
“As prediction markets continue to evolve at a rapid pace, partnering with the two market leaders, Kalshi and Polymarket, provides a tremendous opportunity for the broadest fan engagement during the NHL season,” said Keith Wachtel, President, NHL Business in October.
“As prediction markets continue to evolve at a rapid pace, partnering with the two market leaders, Kalshi and Polymarket, provides a tremendous opportunity for the broadest fan engagement during the NHL season.” — Keith Wachtel, President, NHL Business.
Could More Leagues Follow?
The NHL is currently the only major professional sports league to form a partnership with Kalshi or any of the leading prediction market operators.
Kalshi has signed deals with other sports and leagues that include the: Six-on-Six Soccer Federation, Baller League, and Pro Pickleball.
Other leagues within the top four in the United States and Canada have expressed resistance. The NBA, already embroiled in gambling scandals of their own, have voiced concerns. Similar integrity issues have been echoed by the NFL, MLB, and the NCAA. Additionally, MLB has informed their players that using prediction markets would place them in violation of the league’s betting policies.
As prediction markets continue to grow in popularity, it’s likely that additional NHL franchises could join the Blackhawks. But for now, other leagues are choosing to take a more cautious approach.
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