Versus Implementing New Puck-Tracking Technology For Replays
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Versus Launching Puck-Tracking Technology
For Replays, Especially Deflections, Tip-Ins |
Versus will introduce a puck-tracking technology during tonight's coverage of Maple Leafs-Red Wings that will be used on replays, "especially to illuminate deflections and tip-ins," according to Sarah Kwak of SPORTS ILLUSTRATED. Unlike the glowing puck Fox used during its NHL broadcasts in the '90s, there will be "no glow during live action, and pucks won't have computer chips embedded in them." Versus Exec Producer Marty Ehrlich: "We're looking to enhance the viewing experience, not disrupt it." Kwak notes NBC implemented a "red-halo tracking system to highlight shots on replays" during last season's Stanley Cup Finals, and the net "plans to bring it back next postseason." Rangers C Chris Drury: "I don't care if it's the corniest thing in the world, if it works and gets our ratings up and sells the game, then I'm all for it" (SI, 10/13 issue).
ONLINE UPDATE: CONDE NAST PORTFOLIO's Kevin Maney wrote the recently overhauled NHL.com, a “pretty slick site, with tons of video highlights,” is a “well-done version of what a good major-league sports Web site should be in 2008.” However, this “doesn't solve a couple of the NHL's biggest problems,” as the league has “lousy TV ratings.” Maney wrote the NHL “thinks it's serving those people with the extra highlights on NHL.com, but I don’t get it.” Maney: “Most of those fans would rather watch full, live games.” The NHL is “under-serving half its fan base, while TV broadcasts are doing little to rake in a new fan base.” The NHL is in “perfect position to be the first major sports league to chuck TV and become the first Internet league.” The league should “put every game on line live, supported by ads and free” (PORTFOLIO.com, 10/2).
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ESPN Welcomes Barnaby (r)
As Net's Newest NHL Analyst |
CHANGING OF THE GUARD: Former NHLer Matthew Barnaby was introduced on-air last night as ESPN's new NHL analyst. Lightning coach Barry Melrose, who had worked at the net from '95-'08, offered his replacement some light-hearted advice. Melrose: “I’d just like to congratulate Matthew Barnaby on becoming the hockey guru at ESPN. Great company to work for. Obviously, you’re not as good-looking or as good a dresser as I am, but don’t let that worry you. Find your own niche in the company. One hint or one suggestion: Make sure you try and do a lot of ‘SportsCenters’ with Neil Everett or Scott Van Pelt. Those two guys know hockey very, very well, and they’ll help you through the learning process. Try and stay away from guys like (Steve) Levy and work with the guys I just mentioned.” ESPN’s John Anderson: “With that kind of comedy, it’s amazing we let him get away” (“SportsCenter,” ESPN, 10/8).
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