EA Sports has made a groundbreaking announcement that showcases the evolution of the NHL 25 series. This year, the iconic game's cover will feature a trio of hockey sibling superstars: Jack, Luke, and Quinn Hughes. This historic choice marks the first time in the franchise's history that siblings have graced the cover.
The Hughes Brothers
Jack and Luke Hughes both play for the New Jersey Devils, while their older brother, Quinn Hughes, is the captain of the Vancouver Canucks. Adding significant weight to the family name, Quinn recently earned the Norris Trophy, awarded to the NHL's top defenseman. Their impressive careers paint a picture of a family deeply entrenched in the world of hockey.
The Hughes brothers come from a lineage rich in hockey history. Their father, Jim Hughes, was a captain at Providence College and served as an assistant coach with the Boston Bruins and Toronto Maple Leafs. Currently, Jim is the director of player development for the Maple Leafs. Their mother, Ellen Hughes, is equally accomplished, having been a multi-sport athlete at the University of New Hampshire, a coach, and a broadcaster. Ellen was also a member of the U.S. women’s national hockey team that clinched a silver medal at the 1992 world championships.
Early Beginnings and NHL Stardom
Quinn Hughes was drafted seventh by the Canucks in 2018. This was followed by Jack Hughes, who was the first overall pick by the Devils in 2019, and then Luke Hughes, who was picked fourth by the Devils in 2021. Before their NHL success, Quinn and Luke showcased their talents at the University of Michigan.
The Hughes brothers also honed their skills at the United States National Team Development Program, a stepping stone that has helped them achieve recognition and success in various international events. Their ability to consistently perform on both national and international stages underscores their high-caliber skillsets.
A Historic Matchup
December 5 marked a memorable occasion as the Hughes brothers faced off in an NHL game for the first time. The Devils emerged victorious in a thrilling 6-5 win. Jack shone with three points, Luke found the net with a goal, and Quinn contributed two points for the Canucks. This game was only the second time in NHL history that three brothers from an American family played in the same match.
EA Sports' Decision
EA Sports' decision to feature the Hughes brothers on the cover of NHL 25 is a testament to their impact on the sport. "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," Quinn Hughes expressed, reflecting on the accolade. Luke Hughes added, "I think we grew up on the [video] game." This sentiment of growing up with the game resonates with many players and fans alike.
Quinn's acknowledgment of the honor further cemented the significance of this milestone. "For them to decide to attach their brand with the three of us was pretty cool," he said. Jack Hughes echoed this excitement: "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.'"
Innovative Features in NHL 25
In addition to the symbolic endorsement of the Hughes brothers, NHL 25 is highly anticipated for its new features, including the "Ice-Q" feature. Chris Haluke, who was involved in the game's development, shed light on this feature's inspiration: "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."
A New Era for the NHL Franchise
The release of NHL 25 on October 4 is eagerly awaited. This release not only brings cutting-edge gameplay but also celebrates the legacy and future of hockey through the lens of the Hughes brothers. 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 NHL season itself will kick off with a marquee match, featuring the Buffalo Sabres and the New Jersey Devils squaring off in Prague, Czechia, setting a high bar for the excitement to come.