The NHL is partnering with Sony’s Hawk-Eye to enhance host and fan engagement through player tracking, virtual broadcasting and potential VR experiences.
NHL Hawkeye trade
The NHL has doubled Hawkeye Technology and has signed a multi-year deal with Sony, integrating sophisticated tracking tools that could dramatically change the host decision and fan experience across the sport.
With the league’s new agreement, Sony will become an official partner of NHL technology, expanding beyond Hawk-Eye’s instant replay to real-time tracking, player ratings, and immersive digital content (such as automatic offside reviews and VR fan experiences).
“This partnership is now Camval across their company in a way that impacts everyone in our community,” said David Lehanski, NHL EVP of Business Development and Innovation.
What is Hawkeye Technology in Hockey?
Hawk-Eye Innovations has revolutionized the hosts of a variety of sports, especially tennis and cricket, and is now helping the NHL map any movement on the ice. Use a second light tracking system with hawk-eye tracking.
29 points for each player
3 points on all sticks
This data provides more fuel than replays. It can facilitate real-time visualization, performance analysis and immediately assist in automated rule enforcement, such as offside and goal line calls.
All 32 NHL arenas are equipped with Hawkeye setups, allowing for league-wide standardization of tracking capabilities.
Does the NHL use AI for offside and goal review?
Yes – or at least, it’s seriously considered.
The league is assessing whether Hawk-Eye’s player tracking data can support real-time automated hosts with both offside violations and target confirmations.
However, the speed and fluidity of hockey poses unique challenges compared to sports like soccer and soccer. According to the NHL, they are still testing their feasibility.
Still, the vision is clear. Fastest and more accurate presidency decisions that drive technology already proven in other major leagues, including the NFL and European football.
How does NHL player tracking improve the fan experience?
This isn’t just for the MC. Hawkeye expansion allows you to redefine hockey viewing at home.
Here’s what fans can expect:
Animated broadcasts for children already in use
Virtual reality analysis with analysts like PK Subban entering immersive, 360-degree replays
A web-based interactive experience that allows fans to control camera angles and even “replay” large playback.
Game integrations such as Roblox activation (over 1 million users were seen in the first month)
Sony plans to take advantage of the broader ecosystem, from PlayStation VR to Sony photography and music.
“We would like to bring in Best of PlayStation, Best of Sony Music and Sony Pictures to take the sports industry to a new level,” said Rufus Hack, CEO of Hawkeye, Pillcerib and Beyond Sports.
Can NHL fans watch the game in VR?
It’s not that yet, but that future is coming soon.
Sony’s Beyond Sports Division is working with the NHL to set stages for VR fan experiences on platforms such as the PlayStation and recreate games digitally in real time.
Ultimately, the fans:
Watch games in VR with full mobility
Toggles the first person view of the player
Participate in a virtual watch party or training simulation
The history of the NHL with Hawkeye
The NHL has partnered with Sony’s Hawk-Eye Tech since 2015 and has originally used it for extended video replay reviews. Over time, the partnership has expanded to include real-time skeletal tracking and enhanced broadcasting.
The NHL’s reputation as early high-tech adopters has become a case study for other leagues investigating similar solutions, from NFL line to gain cameras to automated systems in European football.
