I think any sport to a novice will seem inaccessible.
For example, many Americans see soccer as slow and boring and are bothered by the low scores and frequent draws. None of those things are a detriment for hundreds of millions of global soccer fans who see the game as fast and exciting (which it is).
All I can tell you is that following the puck is a non-issue to hockey fans. As others mentioned, at some point you just get a feel for what's going on and you'll have no problem figuring out where the puck is and following the action. If you want to be into hockey, invest time and join some hockey communities to learn the 'meta' of the game, and you'll get it.
For example, many Americans see soccer as slow and boring and are bothered by the low scores and frequent draws. None of those things are a detriment for hundreds of millions of global soccer fans who see the game as fast and exciting (which it is).
All I can tell you is that following the puck is a non-issue to hockey fans. As others mentioned, at some point you just get a feel for what's going on and you'll have no problem figuring out where the puck is and following the action. If you want to be into hockey, invest time and join some hockey communities to learn the 'meta' of the game, and you'll get it.