Heated Rivalry episode 3 gives the spotlight to Scott and Kip. Their relationship was wholesome, not until one silently demands to be known by the other’s world.
Heated Rivalry episode 3 aired on December 5, 2025 via Crave and HBO Max. Episode 3, entitled Hunter, narrates the story of Kip Grady and Scott Hunter—how they met, how they start their relationship, and everything in between. Scott, being known in the hockey industry, couldn’t fully come out. Somehow, it puts Kip in a miserable situation—yearning to be known in Scott’s world.
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Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers about the series. Read at your own risk.
Sparks Fly at the Smoothie Bar in Heated Rivalry Episode 3
Heated Rivalry episode 3 shifts the spotlight to Scott and Kip. The story kicks off around the 2014 Sochi Olympics, when one of Shane’s friends mentions Joe’s courage in coming out—an observation that lingers with Hunter and leaves a strong impression.
In a flashback to four months earlier, Scott Hunter is struggling through a rough season, facing criticism from both fans and the media. One ordinary day, after finishing his run, he wanders into a quaint smoothie shop and meets Kip, who whips up an unforgettable blueberry-banana smoothie. The chemistry is instant, though Kip has no idea who Scott Hunter is.
After that first encounter, Kip starts paying attention to hockey, spurred on by friends teasing him about the way Scott supposedly said his name in a “sexy tone.” By the time Scott returns, Kip is fully invested in the hockey world—and their playful flirting heats up with each visit. Kip’s coworker Maria starts noticing the tension, but Kip refuses to believe that Scott might be gay or even interested in him.
Despite his denial, Scott makes his attraction obvious: generous tips, lingering glances, and subtle touches. Sensing the opportunity, Elena, one of Kip’s best friends, suggests he switch his shift to increase the chances of running into Scott again. The stage is set for a slow-burning, irresistible connection.
From Game Night to Bedroom Getaway
On Scott’s third visit to the smoothie shop, he invites Kip to a hockey game. Kip decides to bring his friend Elena along—a choice he quickly regrets as she won’t stop teasing him the entire time.
A couple of days later, Scott’s team faces Ilya’s in Boston. True to form, Ilya taunts Scott relentlessly, keeping up his charming-but-annoying streak. The tension continues the next day when Scott and Shane clash during a game in Montreal, shocking fans since Shane is usually non-confrontational. Kip watches the action with his dad and can’t help feeling sympathy for Scott.
The following morning, Kip heads to one of his server jobs at a fancy party, juggling multiple gigs to make ends meet. He runs into Scott and accidentally spills food all over him, instantly panicking about being fired. Scott, however, is unfazed and even invites Kip to dinner after the party.
They meet up but ditch the crowded restaurant, deciding instead to head to Scott’s place. What was supposed to be a simple meal turns into a night of intense desire. The two can’t keep their hands off each other, and Scott even asks Kip to stay the night, cementing their explosive chemistry.
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Elena Confronts Scott About Kip in Heated Rivalry Episode 3
The morning after their night together, Scott admits he usually doesn’t date, but he’s willing to break all his own rules for Kip. He even asks Kip to move in with him. He also opens up about being closeted, finally sharing the truth of his situation. Captivated, Kip agrees, and the two dive into a passionate, secret relationship.
To protect Scott ’s privacy, Kip lies to everyone in his life. He tells his dad he’s living with Elena and claims to his friends that he’s too busy with multiple part-time jobs to hang out. His friends suspect the truth but can only watch from the sidelines.
The couple soon settles into a cozy routine, yet Kip starts noticing the limitations of their relationship. Scott ’s closeted status keeps them confined to the privacy of his home, highlighted when Scott panics during a public art studio date. Despite these doubts, Kip stays supportive, pushing aside his concerns.
On the ice, Scott’s performance improves with Kip by his side. Even small gestures, like the socks Kip gifts him, seem to bring luck. But after a few months, Elena confronts Kip, sensing how much he’s hurting. Kip admits to the secret relationship but lies about being happy.
Kip’s dad also notices the growing distance between them and urges Kip to visit more often. While Kip anxiously awaits news about his applications. Ahead of a gala Elena invites him to, Scott gifts Kip a tuxedo, and the pair pretend to be strangers at the event.
During the gala, Elena dances with Scott and presses him about his relationship with Kip. Her concern for Kip hits home, making Scott realize he may not be doing enough for him. Later that evening, the two sneak away after the gala, quietly navigating the thrill and tension of their hidden romance.
Kip and Scott’s Became Distant
At Scott’s house, Kip reminds him that his birthday is approaching and mentions a small celebration his friends are planning at a local gay bar. He invites Scott, but Scott declines, leaving Kip feeling hurt. He admits he hates constantly lying to his friends and family. While Scott, reflecting on Elena’s earlier words, remains silent. Kip decides to spend the night at his family’s home instead.
On the way, Kip can’t stop thinking about Scott’s speech at the gala, where he revealed that his parents died in an accident when he was twelve. Hockey and the team became Scott’s lifeline, with a sports scholarship helping him rebuild his life. For him, the sport and the team are everything.
Once home, Kip breaks down in front of his dad. Over the next few days, the two keep their distance. As Heated Rivalry episode 3 closes, Scott watches from a window as Kip celebrates his birthday with friends, unable to join. By the time the Olympics come around, Scott is left heartbroken, realizing just how complicated and painful their situation has become.
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Heated Rivalry Episode 3 Review
Scott and Kip’s story is the first in the book series, but in this episode, it’s condensed to give extra context for Shane and Ilya’s journey. The adaptation takes some liberties with the source material, but it still delivers.
Arnauld and Robbie shine once again, bringing all the chemistry, longing, and heat to their scenes. While Shane and Ilya only make brief appearances, their cameos are enjoyable and hint at the tension to come.
Scott and Kip’s storyline also digs deeper into homophobia in sports, particularly hockey. Coming out could have serious consequences for Scott’s career, and his fear feels completely justified. He’s lived with this secret his entire life, and Kip’s arrival shakes everything up. Scott even warns Kip about the challenges, making Kip’s frustration and disappointment understandable.
Love often struggles with timing, and this is no exception. Scott and Kip’s journey is messy, but there’s hope they’ll figure it out. At the same time, their choices ripple into Shane and Ilya’s story, making this episode crucial for the overall narrative.
The show also tweaks a few moments for extra impact. Instead of Ilya clashing with Hunter, we see Shane getting into the scuffle, highlighting his deep denial about his feelings for Ilya. With only three episodes left, the stakes—and the tension—are higher than ever.
Catch the next episode of Heated Rivalry on December 12, 2025 via Crave and HBO Max.
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Source: Crave, HBO Max, Crave (X)
