In a surprise announcement that’s thrilling hockey fans, Netflix has confirmed the upcoming release of “The Underdog,” a documentary chronicling the inspiring and hard-fought career of David Backes, former captain of the St. Louis Blues, and veteran of the Boston Bruins and Anaheim Ducks. The film, blending personal stories, behind-the-scenes access, and emotional interviews, is scheduled to premiere on April 27, 2025.
Titled “The Underdog,” the documentary explores Backes’ rise from a relatively overlooked draft pick to becoming one of the most respected leaders in the National Hockey League. Known for his physical style, heart-on-his-sleeve leadership, and unwavering dedication to his teams and teammates, Backes’ story is one of perseverance, loyalty, and grit.
The documentary will delve deep into:
-
His early career with the St. Louis Blues, where he spent a decade and served as team captain. It was in St. Louis that Backes earned a reputation as a relentless competitor, guiding the team through some of its most competitive seasons in the late 2000s and early 2010s.
-
His time with the Boston Bruins, a team he joined in 2016 as part of a pivotal leadership shift. The film explores how Backes adjusted to a new role and new locker room while still fighting to contribute on and off the ice.
-
His final NHL chapter with the Anaheim Ducks, where he mentored young players and confronted the reality of a long career nearing its end.
In one of the most emotional moments previewed in the trailer, Backes says, “I never thought of myself as the fastest or most talented guy out there. But I knew I could outwork you. That was my edge.”
The film features interviews with teammates and coaches across all three franchises, including Alex Pietrangelo, Zdeno Chára, Ryan Getzlaf, and coach Ken Hitchcock. It also explores Backes’ deep involvement in animal rescue efforts through his foundation, revealing a side of the athlete that fans may not have seen.
Executive producers describe “The Underdog” not just as a hockey story, but a “universal story of heart and humanity.” It shows the highs of playoff pushes and the lows of trades, injuries, and uncertainty, all through the eyes of a player who never stopped fighting to stay on the ice.
Netflix has confirmed that the film will be available in over 50 countries, with subtitles and dubbing in multiple languages. It is the latest in a growing line of sports documentaries from the platform, following the success of “Quarterback”, “Drive to Survive”, and “Untold.”
As David Backes himself puts it in the film’s teaser, “I didn’t win a Cup. I didn’t always get the glory. But I know I gave everything. That’s my story.”