The viral success of the HBO series “Heated Rivalry” is hardly stunning in one regard. The idea of two public-facing rivals carrying out a secret romance in private makes for good storytelling.
In another regard, the series is rare. The rivals/lovers are both men, giving mainstream prominence to a gay couple on the small screen in a way that might have been unthinkable a generation ago. They’re also professional hockey players.
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Finding a hockey-themed drama that approach the buzz of “Heated Rivalry” is like grasping at straws. Longform television dramas rarely center around professional sports. And if they do, that sport is not hockey.
“It’s captured the minds of a lot of people and, again, crossover — it’s not just about hockey,” president of NHL business Keith Wachtel told Sports Business Journal’s Austin Karp on the Sports Media Podcast. “It is certainly something that’s talked about a lot. It is definitely helping and supporting the game, which is great, and it’s growing it. … We continue to monitor it and look at it but if it’s supporting the game we all love, we’re pleased that this has become another mainstream opportunity to grow the sport of hockey.”
#Dodgers Gavin Stone had his shoulder examined. Per Dave Roberts only showed inflammation, no structural damage. He will be shut down from throwing for a couple weeks then be re-evaluated
— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) March 3, 2026
Whether actors Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie can convert non-hockey fans into fans of Connor Hellebuyck and Connor McDavid remains to be seen.
Wachtel’s comments suggest the NHL’s executive office at least thinks “Heated Rivalry” is helping, not hurting, the league’s appeal.
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