If New York sports fans are torn between supporting MSG or Optimum amid their carriage dispute, they might rally behind their cherished announcers like Sam Rosen. MSG Networks has been unavailable to Optimum subscribers since January 1, leading to a carriage dispute that leaves fans of the New York Knicks, Rangers, Islanders, and New Jersey Devils in the lurch.
The heart of the conflict seems to arise from Altice-owned Optimum’s desire to include MSG in a premium subscription package, whereas MSG prefers to retain a wider subscriber base for its fees. MSG has accused Altice of walking away from negotiations and refusing to bring the disagreement to an independent arbitrator, while Altice labeled MSG’s arbitration proposal as nothing more than a “PR stunt.” How’s this for a PR stunt?
MSG recently launched a commercial featuring the legendary voice of the Rangers, Sam Rosen, encouraging viewers to switch from Optimum to Verizon, aiming to unite sports fans in holding the cable company accountable.
Optimum subscribers! Follow Sam’s lead and switch to Fios TV on Verizon today. Don’t miss another game! Visit https://t.co/uyCbBpjYAA. pic.twitter.com/p3b0uXanEq
— MSG Networks (@MSGNetworks) February 13, 2025
“Because of Optimum dropping MSG, I’ve lost a big part of what I love the most and that is games,” Rosen notes while awaiting the Verizon technician at home. “Knicks games, Rangers games, it was time for a change.” He adds, brimming with excitement, “Today, I get my MSG Networks back! Don’t be without your MSG Networks. Do what I did. Switch to Verizon Fios.”
Unfortunately, Optimum’s Rangers fans are missing out on Rosen’s final season as a broadcaster, and Knicks fans aren’t able to watch the team’s best season start since 1972-73, coincidentally their last championship year. While MSG makes switching to Verizon appear seamless, with Rosen effortlessly enjoying his coffee at home during the process, it’s not the case for every New York sports fan. For instance, in areas like Long Island, Verizon Fios is unavailable. Fans can opt for an additional streaming service along with their existing cable subscription to catch Knicks games, but that shouldn’t be necessary. They could also revert to using Verizon DSL for decades-old internet speeds if they decide to switch from Optimum’s fiber and cable, but that option is frustratingly limited.
It’s notable how MSG is leveraging its announcers to influence fans towards Fios. Who knows, Mike Breen and Walt Frazier might be next in line to join the recruitment efforts. However, despite all efforts, not every sports fan will find Fios to be a viable option.
