Main Story: The Cavaliers have moved local game broadcasts to DAZN, a shift radio host Ken Carman says could price out fans and make it harder to sustain interest in the team. The question for Cleveland is whether streaming can replace the reach of traditional local TV.

Yes, But

Carman’s claim that “nobody” will watch is an overstatement, and DAZN does give fans a way to follow the team. Still, a new subscription cost and fewer familiar viewing options could discourage casual fans—especially as the Cavs try to build on a disappointing playoff finish.

State of Play
  • Cleveland’s local games are now available on DAZN after the regional sports network system collapsed.
  • An Awful Announcing ranking placed the Cavs last in the NBA for local broadcast accessibility.
  • Carman says he’ll pay to watch, but questions how many fans will do the same.
Bottom Line

Getting games onto a streaming service solves the distribution problem only if fans can—and want to—subscribe. The Cavs’ challenge is not just selling access, but keeping the local audience engaged all season.