



Welcome to the 16th Media Mailbag for The Athletic. Writing a mailbag — as egocentric as it is — is always a fun exercise. So thanks for sending in your questions via The Athletic website and app. Let’s get started.



With seemingly every major rights package up for grabs in the next few years, which are your early frontrunners to change hands? — Sean M



What is the latest on the NHL’s TV contract talks? The current deal with NBC expires in 2021, and there have been rumors the package may split between NBC and another network. — Adam S.



I expect the NHL to take on an additional media partner beyond NBC Sports. I do think NBC Sports will retain the postseason and at least one night per week, but the NHL is in a very good position for a significant rights fee increase. They have a very good story for media companies: Good audience demos, a lot of inventory, and expansion...