NHL’s Bettman Binge-Watches ‘Heated Rivalry,’ Credits Show With Boosting NHL Season
He praised the drama’s reach as a driver of new attention to hockey, maintaining the NHL’s policy against themed warm-up jerseys.
Overview
- Gary Bettman said he watched all six episodes in one night and called the series “a wonderful story,” noting some content may be “a little spicy” for young viewers.
- The commissioner credited the show with contributing to the success of the NHL’s 2025–26 regular season.
- He reiterated that the league supports LGBTQ+ initiatives but has no plans to reinstate Pride or other themed warm-up jerseys.
- Bettman said themed on-ice displays became a distraction when players did not embrace the causes being promoted.
- He recognized the show’s nods to real NHL moments such as Sochi and the Tampa All-Star Game, and fans reacted with amusement to his late-night binge.