Historic Cover Choice for NHL 25 Featuring Hughes Brothers
EA Sports has embarked on a historic move by featuring siblings on the cover of NHL 25 for the first time in the franchise’s history. Jack, Luke, and Quinn Hughes, three of the NHL’s most promising stars, will grace the cover of the widely anticipated game set to be released on October 4. This decision symbolizes a significant endorsement of the Hughes brothers' extraordinary talents and influence in the world of hockey.
A Landmark Moment in Gaming
"I think all of us are just honored because it's a hard thing to be on the cover and there's so many great players in the league," said Quinn Hughes, who recently received the prestigious Norris Trophy as the NHL’s top defenseman. The selection of the Hughes brothers not only highlights their individual achievements but also their collective impact on the sport.
Exceptional Careers
Quinn Hughes captains the Vancouver Canucks and has been a force on the ice since being drafted seventh by the team in 2018. Jack Hughes, chosen first overall by the New Jersey Devils in 2019, and Luke Hughes, picked fourth by the Devils in 2021, both play pivotal roles for the New Jersey contingent.
Their father, Jim Hughes, has been a significant influence, having captained Providence College and served as an assistant coach with the Boston Bruins and Toronto Maple Leafs. Jim is currently the director of player development for the Maple Leafs. Their mother, Ellen Hughes, was a multi-sport athlete at the University of New Hampshire and played on the US women’s national hockey team, earning a silver medal at the 1992 world championships.
Luke Hughes expressed the brothers’ excitement: "I think we grew up on the [video] game." Their presence on the cover marks a full-circle moment for the family, bringing their years of dedication and passion for hockey to the forefront.
Brothers in Competition
The Hughes brothers have brought their impeccable skills and competitive spirit into the NHL. Quinn and Luke both starred at the University of Michigan before joining their respective NHL teams. The brothers’ first face-off in an NHL game took place on December 5, where the New Jersey Devils triumphed over the Vancouver Canucks 6-5. Jack Hughes earned three points, Luke scored a goal, and Quinn accumulated two points during the game. This occasion marked the second time an American family had three brothers play in the same NHL match.
Beyond their on-ice battles, the Hughes brothers have also represented the United States in various international events, earning medals and honing their skills at the United States National Team Development Program. Their combined achievements and dominance in the game have undoubtedly contributed to their selection for the NHL 25 cover.
Innovative Features Await
The NHL 25 game is highly anticipated not only for its prestigious cover athletes but also for its new features, including the intriguing "Ice-Q" feature. Chris Haluke from EA Sports remarked, "Just having their skating abilities, the way that they play, the way that they are playmakers, their offensive and defensive explosiveness -- there's so much that goes into their highly skilled play styles. We felt it was a direct match and helped influence what we were trying to accomplish with 'Ice-Q' and that feature overall."
This innovative feature promises to enhance the gaming experience by capturing the essence of the Hughes brothers' play styles, which are characterized by their dynamic skating, playmaking skills, and on-ice intelligence.
Upcoming NHL Season Opener
As fans eagerly await the release of NHL 25, the NHL season itself is set to begin with a compelling match between the Buffalo Sabres and the New Jersey Devils in Prague, Czechia. This marquee event highlights the global appeal of hockey and sets the stage for another exciting season, with the Hughes brothers front and center.
Jack Hughes emphasized the significance of being on the cover, stating, "This is obviously a pretty special accolade and something I think every NHLer wants to accomplish or grows up and thinks, 'Wow, it'd be really cool to be on the cover.'" The Hughes brothers’ journey from childhood fans of the game to cover athletes exemplifies the realization of a lifelong dream.
Through their hard work, dedication, and remarkable skills, the Hughes brothers have earned a prominent position in both the video game world and professional hockey. As Jack Hughes aptly put it, "We were the same way growing up, and it's another really special opportunity that we grabbed at when it came toward us, and I think we're really excited with the final product."
The release of NHL 25 with the Hughes brothers on its cover is more than a significant marketing milestone; it is a celebration of their contributions to the sport and a recognition of their status as some of the NHL’s brightest stars. Fans can look forward to October 4, when the game hits the shelves and ushers in a new era of hockey excitement.