The Anything Lax Show

There’s a bigger picture being overlooked in the criticism surrounding the NLL’s new broadcasting agreements. For years, the league has operated under a model where television exposure came at a cost. Between production expenses, broadcasting arrangements and NLL+, getting the product in front of viewers required significant financial investment. That’s not an uncommon reality for developing professional sports leagues. Major League Rugby launched The Rugby Network to establish its own distribution platform. The Canadian Elite Basketball League built its television presence through smaller partnerships before expanding its national coverage with CBC. The NWSL went from a modest media rights agreement to securing deals reportedly worth $60 million annually. None of those leagues built their broadcasting businesses overnight. There’s also been plenty of comparisons between the NLL and PLL. But the financial structures are fundamentally different. The PLL operates under a centralized league model and has raised capital through outside investors. Its latest ESPN agreement also included a minority equity investment in the league. The NLL operates through independently owned franchises, with ownership groups responsible for their respective organizations. Both leagues are trying to grow professional lacrosse, but the way they finance that growth is different. Comparing their broadcasting agreements without acknowledging those differences misses an important part of the equation. Now consider the conversations surrounding player salaries. Everyone wants NLL players earning more money. But where is that money supposed to come from? Media rights, sponsorships, ticket sales and other commercial revenue are what allow professional sports organizations to grow. The criticism surrounding subscription costs and accessibility is fair. Fans deserve a quality product at a reasonable price. But the league also needs to establish the commercial value of its broadcasting rights. The financial details of the FloSports agreement remain undisclosed, so its ultimate impact is still unknown. What we do know is that the NLL is entering a new multi-year streaming partnership while maintaining 20 regular-season games and playoff coverage on TSN. Revenue and exposure. Two priorities that don’t always align, but both are essential to the future of professional lacrosse. This isn’t simply about where fans watch games this season. It’s about building a sustainable business that can support higher player salaries, stronger franchises and the long-term growth of the NLL.

BREAKING: TSN will continue broadcasting NLL games through the 2026-27 season, sources tell me. The agreement includes 20 regular season games on linear television, plus playoff coverage. Maintaining a Canadian TV presence was a major priority for the league, owners and players.

BREAKING: The Rochester Knighthawks have found their next bench boss. Troy Cordingley has been named the new Head Coach of the Knighthawks, bringing championship experience, a proven track record, and one of the most respected lacrosse minds in the game back behind a NLL bench. A major hire for a Rochester team looking to take the next step. #NLL #RochesterKnighthawks

🚨 BREAKING 🚨 OttawaU has been awarded hosting duties for the 2026 Baggataway Cup, set for Nov. 12-14. As host, the Gee-Gees receive an automatic berth into the national championship tournament. The question now: should a spot at nationals be earned, or does hosting justify an automatic bid? #CUFLA #BaggatawayCup #Lacrosse