The National Hockey League has been increasingly relying on artificial intelligence and may enter a new era of officiating.

During an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, NHL commissioner Gary Bettman said the league views technology and AI as important tools to improve the game and enhance the fan experience.

“Not changing the game for the technology, but using technology to make the game even more compelling for our fans,” Bettman said while discussing the league’s growing interest in AI-driven systems.

That statement is indicative of a wider shift across sports. Many leagues are now testing automated systems that can make fair decisions in real time.

The NHL has already tested advanced puck and player tracking technology, but Bettman's comments suggest the league could incorporate even more AI-assisted components.

“We think AI is going to help us fine-tune some of the issues, such as: ‘Where exactly is the puck?’” Bettman stated.

As for application, the technology could be used to reduce controversial calls, speed up reviews, and make more accurate decisions. It could also improve TV broadcasts with better live stats and visuals for fans watching at home.

While officiating may utilize AI for better decisions and more consistency, there are areas where NHL teams are already using the technology.

AI Already Changing How NHL Teams Evaluate Players

NHL organizations use AI to study players, improve development, and help make important front-office decisions.

Many teams are growing their analytics departments and spending more money on AI tools to gain an advantage. Since the 2021-22 season, the National Hockey League has used player and puck tracking technology during games.

The chips inside pucks and jerseys collect huge amounts of data every game, which is then used for studying skating speed, puck movement, defense, shot quality, and more.

NHL teams also use newer technology like Hawk-Eye Innovations’ skeletal tracking system. This system can track 29 body points on a player and several points on a hockey stick in real time.

Teams believe this data could greatly improve injury prevention, skating analysis, biomechanics, and goalie evaluation.

“We rely heavily on our crack analytics staff and the work they do on the draft side,” Avalanche GM Chris MacFarland said, as per theScore.

Meanwhile, Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment CEO, Keith Pelley, said AI is becoming very important in hockey operations.

“AI is massive. It is changing our business,” Pelley said, as per theScore. “It really comes down to how you utilize it and how smart you are with it.”

Teams use AI not only to study players, but also to track sleep, fatigue, workload, and game decisions. AI-powered analytics also help teams better understand off-puck movement, passing, and pressure situations during games.

As teams keep investing more in analytics and automation, many NHL executives believe the NHL is only at the start of a huge technology change.

What do you think? How big a role will AI play in the future? Comment your thoughts. 

Read more at the NHL Fan Central.

Written by

Kapil Manghnani

Edited by

Sijo Paul