Flames, NHL announce Canada’s first full-length animated game on Sportsnet

Fans will be able to experience Sunday’s game between the Calgary Flames and San Jose Sharks a bit differently.

The Flames, partnering with NHL and Sportsnet, announced “Harvey’s Mountain Classic” as the first Canadian full-length, real-time animated data visualization, airing on Sportsnet 360 and Sportsnet+.

The broadcast, airing alongside usual Flames coverage on Sportsnet One, will include animated avatars for the play-by-play and colour commentators, and will be available to stream on-demand on Sportsnet+ at the conclusion of the game.

Calgary Sports and Entertainment CEO Lorenzo DeCicco said that enticing and growing a younger fanbase was a priority for the Flames in producing the animated game.

“We’ve had so much fun collaborating on the creation of this new and innovative content and can’t wait for the C of Red to see it on Sunday night. This is all in support of our commitment to delivering the most entertaining and engaging content to the best fans in the NHL,” he said in a statement released by the team.

The Tampa Bay Lightning produced an animated broadcast of their March 29 game against the New York Islanders.

The NFL’s Funday Football and the NBA’s Dunk the Halls are other examples of real-time animated broadcasts in North American professional sports.

Coverage starts at 6 p.m. MT / 9 p.m. PT.