I'm not sure if I totally believe that this article was organically promoted to the front page of HN.
What I have noticed is, when crypto has one of its periodic disasters (e.g. collapse of FTX) the comments are generally highly sceptical of the technology, in keeping with the general tone of HN. But occasionally 'good news' articles like this one get boosted and then the top comments are of notably different tone. For example, comments praising Vitalik, a presumed billionaire with unknown motives, dubious achievements and a unspeakably enormous environmental toll against his name, would be very unusual in any other thread.
But I upvote what I find interesting, much like you or any other user would upvote what you find interesting. Obviously, there are many people on HN who don't find crypto-related topics interesting (or who only enjoy submissions about crypto-related businesses and projects blowing up, of which there is no shortage).
I don't think there is a conspiracy here; if anything, I think you underestimate the number of developers who are primarily interested in the technical aspects of blockchain tech.
Also, the things Vitalik posts about are often interesting even to people who generally dislike or aren't interested in cryptocurrency.