North American ice-hockey’s NHL has entered into a new partnership with AI data platform Vast Data.

Through a multi-year deal unveiled today, the NHL will use Vast Data technology to augment its archival data processes, enhance real-time footage operations across its venues, and improve its readiness for “future advancements in AI-driven content discovery.”

The pair have already been working together for five years during which time - the NHL has said - the collaboration has enabled the league to streamline access to its data archive through a single platform, instead of through 15 different workflows.

The NHL will use different elements of the Vast Data overall technology as the new partnership develops, including Vast DataStore, DataSpace, Database, and DataEngine.

Of these aspects of the partnership, the DataStore will be used to manage, edit, and distribute, the league’s archive of game footage, while the DataSpace section will be used by the league to coordinate data and footage from all 32 NHL arenas, to accelerate production and distribution.

The DataEngine, meanwhile, will be applied across data-driven AI pipelines, meaning the league will be able to automate the generation of highlights from each venue. AI will also be used to “restore historic footage."

Grant Nodine, senior vice president of technology at the NHL, said: “Our partnership with VAST will help the NHL streamline workflows across our live production and archival footage - providing fast, secure access to these data assets anywhere while simultaneously modernizing and future-proofing our data infrastructure for AI.”

Earlier this month, the NHL expanded its partnership with Extreme Networks, the US-based cloud-driven networking company.

Jeff Denworth, Vast Data’s co-founder, added: “We’re excited to partner with the NHL and help to fundamentally redefine professional sports with AI by laying a foundation for real-time production, in-depth player analytics, personalized content and more immersive, interactive experiences.”

Elsewhere in North American ice hockey, the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) has agreed a multi-year deal with the Electronic Arts video game developer.

A tie-up announced today means PWHL players and teams will be brought into the fold of the EA Sports NHL 25 video game.

Launching on December 5, that title will feature all six PWHL teams.

Women’s professional ice hockey was first showcased by EA Sports in its NHL 22 title, through a deal between Electronic Arts and the International Ice Hockey Federation.

The main deal between Electronic Arts and the NHL was last extended in 2020.

The second PWHL season will begin on November 30 and end on May 3.