TORONTO — As the NHL’s chief content officer, Steve Mayer operates behind the scenes with elite hockey players, collaborating on everything from the season-opening media tour for players to reimagining All-Star weekend and organizing outdoor games.
Yet, even this veteran league executive was taken aback by what was captured when cameras gained unrestricted access to Connor McDavid and other NHL stars during last year’s playoffs for a new Amazon Prime docuseries set to premiere in October.
“You think McDavid is solely focused,” Mayer told The Athletic, “but there are moments where he really lets loose on his teammates as a leader.
“I was surprised. I didn’t realize he had that side to him.”
NHL fans caught a glimpse of this in a recently released trailer for FACEOFF: Inside the NHL, which went viral on Monday, showcasing McDavid expressing intense frustration in the visitors’ dressing room at Amerant Bank Arena during the Stanley Cup Final, where his Edmonton Oilers were trailing the Florida Panthers 3-0 in the series.
Connor McDavid had a FIRED UP moment in the new trailer for the BTS Amazon Prime series “FACEOFF: Inside the NHL” 😳
(via @NHL) pic.twitter.com/QpROUvajfI
— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) September 23, 2024
More revelations are on the horizon.
This same environment later yielded some of the most compelling behind-the-scenes footage ever revealed to NHL fans. Cameras documented the raw emotions of Oilers players as they exited the ice following a heartbreaking 2-1 Game 7 loss that thwarted their historic championship comeback attempt.
“That raw emotion after their loss, if you’re human, you’re going to feel it,” Mayer remarked. “It’s incredible. They were all in tears, but you could really see how much Connor wanted it.
“(The series) truly captures a fascinating side of him. I believe viewers will come away feeling differently about him more so than any other player.”
GO DEEPER
McDavid reacts to viral clip from Amazon docuseries
The project promised to offer “unprecedented access” to life in the NHL when it was officially announced earlier this year, and it seems to have successfully accomplished that with a six-episode series set to debut on Amazon Prime starting October 4.
To grasp how they navigated the complexities and red tape that had hampered previous attempts at NHL all-access programming, one must look back at the decision to collaborate with Box to Box Films for its production.
The company, known for the successful docuseries Drive to Survive in Formula One and Full Swing in the PGA Tour, brought instant credibility to the endeavor. They met with players during February’s All-Star weekend in Toronto, gaining early support from McDavid, William Nylander, David Pastrnak, Quinn Hughes, Filip Forsberg, and others who would ultimately play significant roles.
Initially, there were concerns regarding how eager NHL players would be to reveal their lives and put themselves in the spotlight, but Box to Box discovered them to be even more receptive than anticipated.
than athletes they had collaborated with in the past.
“Other sports tend to be more structured,” remarked Paul Martin, one of the co-founders of the company. “There are more layers to navigate. Some sports may believe they have no work left to do. However, there was an undeniable sentiment that hockey desired a show like this.”
Nylander set a positive early tone, diving into the project “feet first,” as noted by showrunner Daniel Amigone.
In March, the Toronto Maple Leafs star invited the cameras into his home and imposed no limitations on their access. They followed him to his favorite restaurant, an outdoor shinny rink, and during walks with his dogs, Pablo and Banksy. Later, when Nylander was sidelined for three games in a first-round series against the Boston Bruins due to severe migraines, he allowed the cameras back into his home as he watched his teammates play on television without him.
The son of former NHL player Michael Nylander has a strong appreciation for behind-the-scenes sports programming and views this opportunity as a way to inspire the next generation of aspiring hockey players.
He fully opened his doors and put complete trust in the producers.
“I didn’t have any say in the final outcome of the show,” Nylander expressed. “That’s just who I am.”
In the inaugural episode, he stars alongside Pastrnak while wearing a microphone when he returned to the Leafs’ lineup for Game 4 against the Bruins. During that game, he had a spirited exchange with teammates Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner on the bench.
This entire exchange is presented unedited in FACEOFF, featuring Nylander telling Marner, “Shoot it. Stop crying, bro.”
“That’s the exciting aspect of the show—being able to witness that side of the game,” Nylander mentioned. “Without the cameras, no one would know what was happening. You also saw a moment with Connor (McDavid) in the locker room. That’s the kind of emotion that fans are looking for in players.”
Securing McDavid’s participation was pivotal for the docuseries, as it allowed the cameras to capture some of the most emotional moments during the Oilers’ journey to the Stanley Cup Final, particularly during a spring in which he received the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP.
The captain of the Edmonton team noted that the experience compelled him to be more open and vulnerable, but he also felt a duty to help expand the sport’s audience.
“We’re all in this together,” McDavid stated. “The league and the players must collaborate to promote the game.”
“I never intended to be the star of the show,” he continued, according to The Athletic’s Daniel Nugent-Bowman. “We thought we would start cautiously, but — here we are — diving in headfirst.”
Having someone of his caliber involved made it easier to encourage other players to participate in the series. This was a significant factor in Vancouver Canucks captain Quinn Hughes agreeing to join.
<p“I value my privacy,” Hughes mentioned earlier this month during the NHL’s player media tour. “Going back to Michigan in the summer means no one hears anything about me for three months. So, taking part in the Box to Box series wasn’t an obligation for me. But when I learned that the other guys were participating, I thought, ‘If they’re doing it, how can I refuse?’”
Ultimately, the finished product will speak for itself.
The seriousness with which the NHL approached this endeavor is undeniable, as commissioner Gary Bettman, deputy commissioner Bill Daly, and several other senior league officials were present at Monday’s upscale launch event in downtown Toronto.
This project also holds significant importance for Amazon, which is becoming increasingly involved with the league through initiatives like Prime Monday Night Hockey and the NHL Coast to Coast wraparound show starting this season.
GO DEEPER
Mark Messier joins Amazon Prime’s hockey broadcast team
The company is optimistic about the reception of FACEOFF.
“It’s incredibly impactful,” stated Kari Roe, a vice president at Prime Video. “There’s a surprising level of honesty, particularly in the episodes featuring the Panthers and Oilers. It was quite challenging. I truly appreciated how they allowed individuals to present their authentic selves.”
Thanks to the positive buzz generated by those involved in the series, players have already begun expressing interest in joining Season 2.
The standard for behind-the-scenes access in hockey has undoubtedly been elevated.
“We’ve gained valuable insights,” said Mayer. “We sincerely hope for a second season because there were numerous small aspects throughout the process that we believe we can improve upon.”
— The Athletic’s Michael Russo contributed to this story.
(Photo: Bruce Bennett / Getty Images)
Unveiling the Real Connor McDavid: Inside the NHL with Amazon Prime’s ‘FACEOFF’
Who is Connor McDavid?
Connor McDavid is a Canadian professional ice hockey centre and the captain of the Edmonton Oilers of the National Hockey League (NHL). Born on January 13, 1997, in Richmond Hill, Ontario, McDavid was the first overall pick in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft. Renowned for his extraordinary skill, speed, and hockey IQ, he has quickly become a dominant force in the league, often regarded as one of the best players in modern hockey history.
‘FACEOFF’ on Amazon Prime: A Unique Perspective
Amazon Prime’s ‘FACEOFF’ is an exclusive docuseries that takes viewers behind the scenes of McDavid’s life both on and off the ice. This series aims to provide a deeper understanding of the man behind the player, showcasing his journey, challenges, and triumphs in the competitive world of professional hockey.
What to Expect from ‘FACEOFF’
- Intimate Interviews: The series features candid conversations with McDavid, his teammates, coaches, and family members, offering insights into his daily life and mindset.
- Game Highlights: Viewers can relive some of McDavid’s most thrilling moments on the ice, including stunning goals and playoff performances that have defined his career.
- Training Regimens: Get a glimpse into the rigorous training routines that keep McDavid at the top of his game, including workouts, diet, and recovery strategies.
- Personal Stories: The docuseries delves into McDavid’s personal life, including his upbringing and the sacrifices made to reach the pinnacle of hockey.
The Impact of Connor McDavid on the NHL
McDavid’s influence on the NHL transcends his on-ice performance. He has become a global ambassador for the sport, attracting a new generation of fans and inspiring young players worldwide. His playing style—a blend of speed, agility, and precision—has set a new standard for aspiring hockey talents.
Key Achievements
| Year | Award | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | Calder Memorial Trophy | Best rookie in the NHL |
| 2017 | Art Ross Trophy | Most points in a season |
| 2020 | Hart Memorial Trophy | League MVP |
| 2021 | All-Star Game MVP | Outstanding performance in the All-Star Game |
Inside the Mind of a Champion
One of the unique aspects of ‘FACEOFF’ is its exploration of McDavid’s mental approach to the game. Viewers gain insights into how he handles pressure, stays motivated, and continues to evolve as a player. His success is not just a result of physical talent; it is also rooted in a strong mindset and resilience.
Key Mental Strategies
- Visualization: McDavid practices mental imagery techniques to prepare for games, allowing him to envision successful plays and outcomes.
- Goal Setting: He sets short and long-term goals to maintain focus and drive throughout the season.
- Stress Management: Techniques for managing stress, including mindfulness and breathing exercises, are emphasized in the series.
Behind the Scenes: The Journey of a Hockey Star
‘FACEOFF’ highlights the rigorous journey of becoming an elite athlete. McDavid’s story is one of perseverance, showcasing his journey from a young boy with dreams of playing in the NHL to becoming a world-renowned player.
Life Before the NHL
- Early Beginnings: McDavid’s passion for hockey ignited at a young age, with early experiences in minor hockey leagues.
- OHL Success: His standout performance in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) solidified his status as a top prospect.
- Overcoming Injuries: McDavid faced significant challenges, including injuries, which he overcame with determination and support from his family and coaches.
Benefits of Watching ‘FACEOFF’
For hockey fans and aspiring players, ‘FACEOFF’ offers numerous benefits:
- Inspiration: McDavid’s story serves as motivation for individuals pursuing their dreams, illustrating that with hard work, anything is possible.
- Insights into Professional Sports: The series provides a rare glimpse into the life of a professional athlete, highlighting the dedication required to succeed.
- Understanding the Game: Fans will gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of hockey, learning about the strategies that go into each game.
First-Hand Experience: Fans Share Their Thoughts
Fans of McDavid and hockey enthusiasts have shared their thoughts on the impact of ‘FACEOFF’:
“Watching ‘FACEOFF’ made me appreciate the dedication and talent that goes into being an NHL player. McDavid is an inspiration!” – Avid Hockey Fan
“The behind-the-scenes look at McDavid’s life was enlightening. It’s not just about the game; it’s about the person.” – Young Aspiring Player
Conclusion
With its engaging narrative and insightful content, Amazon Prime’s ‘FACEOFF’ not only unveils the real Connor McDavid but also enriches the viewer’s understanding of what it takes to excel in the NHL. For both die-hard hockey fans and new viewers alike, this series is a must-watch that combines sports, personal growth, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
