The NHL signed a deal with the nation's largest online licensed sports apparel retailer Fanatics on Wednesday that gives the company the exclusive right to make NHL fan replica jerseys as well as all quick turnaround product including the official Stanley Cup champion locker room apparel.
How much Fanatics paid the league for the deal, which starts next season, is unknown but sources say the contract is for a whopping 16 years.
The relationship provides a window into the future of sports retail. A fan will now order a jersey on Fanatics or one of its affiliates, including the official online store of any of the major sports leagues.