Philly Does Best Network Numbers Since Lindros’ Return

Larger-than-usual numbers in Philadelphia drove NBC to higher ratings for NHL action on Sunday.

The network’s broadcast of Flyers-Pens, which drew a 1.2 overnight, scored a 4.7 local rating in Philadelphia. Excluding the two Winter Classics the Flyers have participated in, this is the best number for a regular season game in Philly since January 12, 2002, when the Rangers hosted the Flyers – and Eric Lindros returned to Philadelphia for the first time – on ABC. That game drew a whopping 9.7. Yesterday’s game drew a fairly standard 12.7 in Pittsburgh.

The 1.2 overnight was – excluding special events (Winter Classics and Hockey Day in America) – the best numbers for a regular season game since 2010, when a Penguins-Capitals game scored a 1.3 overnight.

(Source: NBC Sports)