Sportsnet vs TSN — Which Do You Need for Hockey in Canada?
Compare Sportsnet and TSN channel packages for NHL and NBA coverage in Canada. Find out which service carries your team's games.
Last updated: 2026-03-01
The Big Question
If you're a sports fan in Canada, you've probably asked yourself: do I need Sportsnet, TSN, or both? The answer depends entirely on which teams you follow.
NHL Coverage Comparison
Sportsnet
- ✓ Edmonton Oilers
- ✓ Calgary Flames
- ✓ Vancouver Canucks
- ✓ Toronto Maple Leafs (some games)
- ✓ Hockey Night in Canada (Saturdays on CBC/SN)
- ✓ NHL national games
TSN
- ✓ Toronto Maple Leafs (many games)
- ✓ Ottawa Senators
- ✓ Winnipeg Jets
- ✓ Montreal Canadiens (English)
- ✓ Select national games
NBA Coverage
For the Toronto Raptors, TSN carries the majority of regional broadcasts, with Sportsnet picking up select games. If you're primarily a Raptors fan, TSN is the more important subscription.
Streaming: Sportsnet+ vs TSN+
| Feature | Sportsnet+ | TSN+ |
|---|---|---|
| NHL Games | All SN regional + national | All TSN regional |
| NBA Games | Select Raptors | Most Raptors |
| Out-of-Market NHL | Yes (Premium tier) | No |
| No Cable Required | Yes | Yes |
The Verdict
If you follow a Western Canadian team (Oilers, Flames, Canucks) — you need Sportsnet.
If you follow an Eastern Canadian team (Senators, Jets, Canadiens) — you need TSN.
If you follow the Leafs or Raptors — you probably need both, since games alternate between the two networks.
Don't forget CBC — Hockey Night in Canada airs free every Saturday on CBC and CBC Gem.
Use Showdar to Check
Instead of guessing, use Showdar to check which channel tonight's game is on. We show you the exact broadcast for every game in real-time.