https://www.nhl.com/news/puck-and-player-tracking-intrigues-nhl-coaches/c-304225886

How cool is this? More than 20 years after FOX introduced the Glow Puck and comet tail, the NHL is embedding sensors in players and pucks to enhance the fan experience AND collect data to aid coaches.

Taken to its inevitable conclusion, can you imagine being able to see (in real-time) the heart rate and speed of a player after blocking a shot with his ankle? Is he skating slower? Is he gutting it out and playing in intense pain?

The X’s and O’s aspect of this concept will also undoubtedly have a huge impact on the game. Every play, pass, position on the ice, shot, goal, etc. will be recorded and analyzed to identify trends, patterns, and opportunities. For example, coaches will now be able to see (in real-time) if there’s a matchup that can be exploited to try and gain advantage on the ice. Apply this same idea to football and you’ll be able to (in real-time) know that by shifting the formation you’ll be able to get your ‘Z’ wide receiver matched up against the nickel corner who is running 2mph slower than usual.

Ha, maybe they’ll start putting energy meters above each player like in video games.

It’s like living in the future.