NBCSN to launch NHL programs 'NHL Rivals' and 'NHL Top' 10 for 2013-14 season

NBCSN will launch a pair of new programs - "NHL Rivals" and "NHL Top 10" - on Tuesday, Oct. 9, expanding NBC Sports Group's NHL coverage with programming focused on hockey's historic rivalries and some of the game's most-debated topics.

"NHL Rivals," which will debut each week on Tuesday at 10:30 p.m. on NBCSN, dovetails off of NBCSN's "Wednesday Night Rivalry," which Forbes dubbed "the hottest new brand in sports." "NHL Rivals" will delve into the storied history between many of the "Wednesday Night Rivalry" matchups, as told by current and former players, broadcasters and writers.

The debut episode of "NHL Rivals" on Oct. 9 will feature the Chicago Blackhawks and St. Louis Blues, who have been division rivals since 1970 and face off on "Wednesday Night Rivalry" on Oct. 10 at 8 p.m. "NHL Rivals" will also air each week at 6:30 p.m. leading into "NHL Live," NBC Sports Group's live pre- and post-game show.

"NHL Top 10," which will premiere each week following "NHL Rivals," will dive deep into some of the most timeless debates hockey fans have discussed for decades. The weekly countdown program will run the gamut of hockey "bests," including top goal-scorers and U.S.-born players, as well as the toughest places to play in the NHL and top Olympic moments. It will feature commentary and analysis from current and former players, broadcasters and writers.

Following are weekly air times, beginning Oct. 9: