It can probably backfire. I love Seth Meyers "Ya Burnt" bits, but have watched an actual Seth Meyers show fewer than 10 times. That said, late night talk shows are probably a bad example, because they're all monologue, bit, interview, interview, musical guest, so most people will have interest in 2-3 of those things and endure the rest. I would guess a lot of people see a John Oliver bit on YouTube and think "I want to see more of this" and that's pretty much what his whole show is so it does help ratings a little more. What Simmons will do, who knows, but from HBO's perspective, they probably don't care much, they have a half hour filled for the next few years with someone that probably will not be a negative for them, could be a positive and will attract a demo they can encourage to watch Ballers and sports documentaries.