Netflix is skating into heartfelt sports territory with an upcoming hockey drama that promises to deliver the emotional depth of Friday Night Lights meets the small-town authenticity of Mare of Easttown. Led by Michelle Monaghan (True Detective, The White Lotus) and produced by Stranger Things mastermind Shawn Levy, this eight-episode series explores loss, resilience, and community healing through America’s most passionate winter sport.
Set to begin production in January 2026, this untitled series (working title: The Sticks) represents Netflix’s continued investment in compelling sports dramas that transcend the playing field.
Table of Contents
Michelle Monaghan’s Series Overview
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Lead Star | Michelle Monaghan |
| Episodes | 8 |
| Creator | Nick Naveda |
| Showrunner | Bridget Bedard |
| Executive Producers | Shawn Levy, Dan Levine, Robert Atwood |
| Director (Ep 1-2) | Trey Edward Shults |
| Production Company | 21 Laps Entertainment |
| Filming Start | January 9, 2026 |
| Location | Vancouver |
The Story That Will Break Your Heart
In South Dorothy, Minnesota – a small working-class town where hockey isn’t just a sport but a way of life – tragedy strikes when a devastating bus crash claims several high school players and their legendary coach, “Sully” Sullivan.
Enter Harper Sullivan, Sully’s widow, thrust into an impossible position: lead a new team of traumatized young players toward healing while processing her own grief. What emerges is a powerful narrative about how communities rebuild, how strangers become family, and how the game itself becomes therapy for those left behind.
This isn’t your typical underdog sports story. It’s raw, emotional, and unflinchingly real – examining trauma, masculinity, mentorship, and the weight of legacy in a town where hockey provides identity and purpose.
Powerhouse Creative Team
Michelle Monaghan brings depth to Harper Sullivan, drawing on her acclaimed performances in prestige dramas. Her ability to convey complex emotions with subtle nuance makes her perfect for a character navigating grief while inspiring hope.
Nick Naveda (Words on Bathroom Walls, My Lovely Wife in the Psych Ward) created this passion project, stating: “I’ve carried South Dorothy and its people in my heart for as long as I can remember. To finally bring that world to life with my Grizzly family at 21 Laps and Netflix is nothing short of a dream come true.”
Bridget Bedard serves as showrunner, bringing experience from critically acclaimed series Love Life, Ramy, and Transparent – all known for their authentic character work and emotional intelligence.
Trey Edward Shults (Waves, It Comes at Night) directing the first two episodes ensures cinematic quality. His films are known for visceral emotional impact and intimate character studies – perfect for this material.
The 21 Laps Entertainment Connection
Shawn Levy’s production company has become Netflix’s golden touch, delivering:
- Stranger Things – Netflix’s biggest phenomenon
- The Adam Project – Top 5 most-watched Netflix films
- All the Light We Cannot See – Emmy-winning limited series
- The Perfect Couple – 2024 breakout hit
Levy himself expressed enthusiasm: “This show has long been a 21 Laps favorite and one of the best pieces we’ve had the privilege of developing and supporting. With its visceral sports backdrop and a story grounded in deep humanity, we cannot wait to bring it to a global audience.”
Why This Could Be Netflix’s Next Prestige Hit
Universal Themes: While hockey provides the backdrop, the series explores grief, community, masculinity, and healing – themes that resonate regardless of sports knowledge.
Proven Track Record: Every key creative has delivered critically acclaimed, emotionally resonant work. This isn’t a gamble; it’s calculated excellence.
Perfect Timing: Sports dramas are having a renaissance (Ted Lasso, Welcome to Wrexham, The Bear‘s emotional depth), and audiences crave authentic stories about real people.
For more Netflix original series previews and sports drama recommendations, explore our entertainment coverage. Stay updated on premiere dates at Netflix.
Production Timeline
Filming runs from January 9 to early May 2026 in Vancouver. Expect a late 2026 or early 2027 premiere, giving Netflix time for strategic positioning during awards season – a strategy that’s worked brilliantly for their prestige dramas.
FAQs
Do I need to understand hockey to enjoy this series?
Not at all! While hockey provides the setting, the series focuses on universal themes of grief, community healing, and human resilience. Think of it like Friday Night Lights – football was the backdrop, but the show succeeded because of its powerful character work and emotional storytelling. The hockey elem
When will the untitled hockey series premiere on Netflix?
Netflix hasn’t announced an official premiere date yet. With production scheduled from January to May 2026, the series will likely debut in late 2026 or early 2027. The eight-episode format and prestige creative team suggest Netflix may position it as an awards contender, potentially timing the release for maximum critical attention during fall 2026 or early 2027.
