Verizon May Replace Sprint As NHL Wireless Sponsor

(c) MocoNews reports

Verizon is on the verge of a three-year deal with the NHL for around $12 million, according to the Sports Business Journal's Terry Lefton. The deal also would include a "low seven-figure media commitment" on OLN and NBC and would cover NHLPA ( National Hockey League Players' Association) rights and non-exclusive content. Verizon would get some exclusive. Sprint Nextel has been the official sponsor and is the officer wireless sponsor of the NFL; Verizon has not been as active on the national sports sponsorship front. -- "Other than acquiring video content, sources said that Verizon Wireless' strength in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast markets, where hockey is strong, along with the tech-savvy, early-adopter nature of the NHL fan base were both factors accounting for the carrier's interest in league rights."
Maybe sales material for cellphones should come with expiration dates for exclusives and sponsorships. Pretty sure following your favorite sport to another carrier qualifies for an early out.