NHL Breaks the Ice with Matrox, Vizrt & AWS for Cutting-Edge Live Cloud Production

The blog post "NHL breaks the ice with cutting-edge live cloud production powered by AWS" by Andrew Reich, Alex Murel, and Luke Potter for Amazon Web Series details how the National Hockey League (NHL) has revolutionized live sports production by utilizing cloud technology from Amazon Web Services (AWS). The NHL's transition to cloud-based production marks a significant shift from the traditional method of using production trucks and fixed control rooms, offering enhanced efficiency, scalability, and sustainability.

Key Highlights:

1. Historic Cloud-Based Broadcast:

   • On March 22, the NHL produced the first fully cloud-based live professional sports broadcast in North America for a game between the Washington Capitals and the Carolina Hurricanes.
   • The live broadcast was produced in 1080p using AWS technologies, managed by a remote team, demonstrating that cloud-based production can match traditional hardware functionality.

2. Innovative Workflow:

   • The NHL's Live Cloud Production (LCP) workflow enabled video and audio switching, replay, and graphics integration in the cloud.
   • A pilot initiative called “NHL EDGE Unlocked” showcased advanced data-driven storytelling with non-traditional camera angles and real-time puck and player tracking.

3. Foundation and Collaboration:

   • The NHL's partnership with AWS began in 2021, with AWS serving as the league's Official Cloud Infrastructure Provider.
   • Key developments include the NHL EDGE IQ stats and a cloud-based encoding and scheduling pipeline, facilitating live game feeds from venues to AWS.

4. Remote Collaboration and Flexibility:

   • The NHL successfully reduced on-site personnel and equipment, demonstrating remote collaboration's potential by using minimal on-site gear.
   • A single AWS employee managed technical coordination at the arena, while production crews operated from remote locations like the NHL Network studios in New Jersey and NHL headquarters in Manhattan.

5. Sustainability and Scalability:

   • The LCP significantly lowers carbon emissions and travel costs by reducing the need for production trucks and on-site staff.
   • It offers scalability for major events like the Stanley Cup Playoffs, enabling multiple feeds in different languages and formats with reduced on-site energy consumption.

6. Enhanced Fan Experience:

   • The flexibility of cloud production allows for customized broadcasts tailored to various audience preferences, including avid fans, casual viewers, and those interested in specific statistics or interactive features.
   • Advanced analytics and real-time access to footage enhance the storytelling and viewing experience, making content easily accessible and customizable.

7. Technical Execution:

   • The broadcast involved feeds from ten on-site cameras encoded and sent to AWS, where video was processed and integrated with various production elements.
   • The system utilized technologies like AWS Elemental MediaConnect, Vizrt’s TriCaster Vectar, Viz Trio, and Evertz DreamCatcher for production switching, graphics, and replay.

The NHL's partnership with AWS represents a pioneering step towards more sustainable, flexible, and immersive live sports broadcasts, setting a new standard in the industry.

Read the full article by Andrew Reich, Alex Norman, and Luke Potter for Amazon Web Services HERE