It could potentially improve their relationship. Since Naruto is not involved with Sakura, there's no love triangle tension between them regarding Sakura. This might allow Naruto and Sasuke to focus more on their own friendship and mutual respect.
Well, it could strengthen their bond. Naruto being hurt might make Hinata more protective and caring towards him. This could lead to Naruto realizing Hinata's true feelings for him more deeply, and in turn, he might start to see her in a new light, growing closer to her.
Often in fanfiction, the relationship develops as they train together. They learn new skills from each other. Naruto teaches Sasuke about the power of friendship and determination, Sasuke shows Naruto and Sakura some advanced Uchiha techniques. Sakura, with her medical knowledge, helps them both when they get injured during training. This mutual learning and support strengthen their bond.
In fanfiction, the rivalry can start from simple jealousy. Sakura might see Hinata's closeness to Naruto and become envious. Hinata, being shy, may be intimidated by Sakura's boldness. As the story progresses, it could escalate into a full - blown competition. For example, they might compete in tasks to prove their worthiness to Naruto. This could include things like who can better protect Naruto in a dangerous situation or who can support him more in his goals.
One possible reason could be Hinata's unwavering loyalty. Throughout the series, Hinata has always been there for Naruto, believing in him even when others didn't. In contrast, Sakura was often more focused on Sasuke. So Naruto might see Hinata as someone who truly understands and supports him.
It changes the relationship between Sasuke and Sakura significantly. Instead of the canonical relationship where they end up together, Sakura is left heartbroken. This could also lead to a change in Sakura's character, perhaps making her more independent. As for Sasuke and Karin, their relationship becomes more central and they might face different challenges together as a couple.
Jealousy can add a lot of drama. If Sasuke is jealous, he might become more possessive. For example, he could stop Sakura from going on certain missions with other male characters. This can cause arguments between them as Sakura values her independence. On the other hand, if Sakura is jealous, she might be more withdrawn. She may not be as affectionate towards Sasuke, which can make him feel confused and frustrated, straining their relationship.
Well, with Minato alive, Naruto would have a stronger family support system. This would likely make Naruto less eager to prove himself through Sasuke. And for Sasuke, seeing Naruto having a complete family with Minato might stir some complex emotions in him. Maybe envy at first, but later it could lead to him being more open to Naruto's friendship. Minato could also act as a mediator between the two, guiding them to understand each other's pain and dreams better, thus forging a stronger bond between them.
Well, it could make Sasuke feel a bit left out at first. He might be jealous that Naruto has Sakura's attention. But in some fanfictions, it could also lead to Sasuke realizing that he has some feelings for Sakura too, and then there would be a love triangle situation.
It can strengthen the NaruHina relationship. Since Naruto hates Sakura and Sasuke, he might turn more towards Hinata for emotional support. Hinata's presence becomes even more important to him. He realizes that Hinata is the one who truly cares about him, not like Sakura who is preoccupied with Sasuke.
At first, it can cause some tension. Hinata might be too shy to face Naruto directly after being embarrassed. But as Naruto is a bit clueless about it at times, he might not understand why Hinata is acting strange. Eventually, if he realizes his mistakes, it can lead to a deeper understanding between them as he tries to make it up to her.