NHL Innovation Hub: How Verizon Powers New Tech on the Ice

Technology continues to shape sport, with connectivity and near real-time data embedded in broadcast and fan engagement.

In ice hockey, that idea takes form through a new facility that places telco infrastructure at the front and centre of testing and deployment.

In partnership with Verizon and the New Jersey Devils, the National Hockey League (NHL) has opened the NHL Innovation Lab powered by Verizon.

The lab is located inside the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, and it operates as a simulated arena where new tech is tested under conditions that reflect live games.

With its launch, the league has become the very first US professional sports league to establish a dedicated facility focused on testing, validating and incubating technology in this type of environment.

How is Verizon involved in NHL's tech tests?

The lab relies on Verizon Business’ Private 5G Wireless Network and Secure Cloud Interconnect (SCI) solutions. 

This combined foundation delivers high bandwidth and low latency, together, supporting applications that depend on consistent and rapid data delivery.

Kyle Malady, CEO of Verizon Business, says: "This innovation lab is the next phase of our long-standing partnership with the NHL, allowing us to push the boundaries of what's possible on the ice, in the arena, and for the fans.

"By deploying Verizon’s Private 5G Wireless Network and Secure Cloud Interconnect (SCI) solutions, we are providing a dedicated, high-speed and secure technology foundation for the NHL to incubate and validate next-generation solutions.

"We are proud to serve as the technological partner that helps the NHL strengthen its game."

The infrastructure also underpins reliable connectivity for critical applications tied to both game day operations and the wider fan experience, where uninterrupted service is particularly important.

Sony Hawk-Eye tracks player performance

The NHL Innovation Lab focuses on use cases where network performance directly affects delivery.

One area is advanced media workflows developed with Sony technology to capture and process 4K and 8K content at scale. As high-resolution formats require large volumes of data to move without disruption, network stability is essential.

The facility includes a Sony Crystal LED direct view display measuring 144in by 81in with a resolution of 2880px by 1620px, alongside a BRAVIA XR 75in Class Z9K 8K HDR Mini LED television.

Sony Hawk-Eye technology is installed throughout the practice rink. Hawk-Eye is a tracking system that uses cameras and data processing to follow puck and player movement, supporting officiating and performance analysis.

These systems complement broadcast and production equipment that are already deployed in the arena.

Near real-time applications also play a significant role as coaches and staff rely on rapid access to video and data to inform decisions during play.

AI is also tested within this environment, supporting automated analytics and content creation across both operations and broadcast workflows.

A live environment for network validation

Placing the lab inside an active arena introduces variables such as device density, signal interference and fluctuating traffic demand.

Deploying tech in a test environment instead allows performance to be measured under realistic conditions, including throughput, without real time service interruption.

Virtualisation is another part of the testing framework, which involves creating digital versions of physical infrastructure, enabling resources to scale efficiently as demand changes.

Dave Lehanski, NHL Executive Vice President, Business Development and Innovation, says: "We’re incredibly proud to continue investing in innovation that strengthens our game and supports its long-term growth.

"The NHL Innovation Lab powered by Verizon is an important next chapter in our technology and innovation journey.

"We continue to be committed to leveraging new and emerging technology to benefit every aspect of our game, and the NHL Innovation Lab gives us the ability to test, validate and refine new technology on the ice, in real game environments, all year round right in our own backyard."

Testing at this scale supports the NHL’s aim to prepare its infrastructure for increasing data demands and evolving performance requirements. 

Combining private 5G, secure cloud connectivity and high-resolution media systems means the lab creates a controlled environment where telco capability directly supports gameplay and broadcast demands.