Due to the popularity of Heated Rivalry, having a gay couple playing on your home team would bring an entire new audience.

The league does not get to pick who. The coach does not get to pick who. The players have to figure it out internally before opening night.

Every team must submit their official couple to the league office, and they have to do at least one postgame interview together per month. If a team refuses, they lose a draft pick.

This would instantly improve fan engagement, jersey sales, locker room drama, and the quality of NHL TikTok edits. The Stanley Cup Finals would become must-watch television for people who have never once cared about icing.