EA Sports Chooses Hughes Brothers for NHL 25 Cover
In a historic move for the EA Sports franchise, the cover of NHL 25 will feature the Hughes brothers: Jack, Luke, and Quinn. This groundbreaking decision marks the first occasion siblings have been showcased together on the cover of the iconic video game series. Available from October 4, the release of NHL 25 has generated immense excitement among hockey enthusiasts and gamers alike.
A Family of Excellence
Jack and Luke Hughes, who play for the New Jersey Devils, and Quinn Hughes, captain of the Vancouver Canucks, form a trio celebrated not only for their individual talents but also for their family's rich hockey heritage. Their father, Jim Hughes, shares a history of leadership and coaching within the sport, having been a captain at Providence College and later serving as an assistant coach with the Boston Bruins and Toronto Maple Leafs. Currently, he oversees player development for the Maple Leafs. The brothers' mother, Ellen Hughes, boasts an impressive resume as well, having competed as a multi-sport athlete at the University of New Hampshire and representing the US women’s national hockey team, which claimed a silver medal at the 1992 World Championships. Ellen Hughes has also contributed to the sport as a coach and broadcaster.
Embarking on NHL Careers
The Hughes brothers have each carved out notable careers in the NHL. Quinn Hughes, drafted seventh overall by the Canucks in 2018, recently earned the prestigious Norris Trophy, awarded annually to the league's top defenseman. Jack Hughes followed, being selected first overall by the Devils in 2019, with Luke Hughes coming in as the fourth overall pick for the Devils in 2021. Both Quinn and Luke honed their skills at the University of Michigan, while all three brothers further developed their talents within the United States National Team Development Program.
The significance of their achievement isn't lost on the brothers. Jack Hughes expressed the shared sentiment of honor, remarking, "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.' 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."
A Historic Match
The Hughes brothers also made headlines on December 5, when they faced off in an NHL game for the first time. The New Jersey Devils triumphed over the Vancouver Canucks in a thrilling 6-5 victory. Jack Hughes demonstrated his offensive prowess with three points, while Luke Hughes scored a goal and Quinn Hughes concluded the game with two points. This event marked just the second time in NHL history that three American brothers competed against each other in the same match.
The Impact of 'Ice-Q'
One of the most awaited features in NHL 25 is the introduction of the "Ice-Q" feature, which is designed to enhance the gaming experience by incorporating the dynamic playing styles of the Hughes brothers. Chris Haluke from EA Sports elaborated on this feature, stating, "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."
Looking Forward to the NHL Season
Excitement for the upcoming 2023-2024 NHL season is palpable, with the league kicking off with a marquee match between the Buffalo Sabres and the New Jersey Devils in Prague, Czechia. Fans are eager to see how the Hughes brothers continue to shape the future of hockey, both on the ice and within the gaming world. Quinn Hughes succinctly captured the collective pride, saying, "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." Luke Hughes echoed this sentiment, highlighting the personal significance for the brothers, "I think we grew up on the [video] game."
A Bright Future Ahead
The decision to feature Jack, Luke, and Quinn Hughes on the cover of NHL 25 is more than a nod to their familial bond; it underscores their impact on the sport and their influence on future generations of players and fans. As Jack Hughes aptly noted, "For them to decide to attach their brand with the three of us was pretty cool." With their impressive skating abilities, playmaking skills, and a shared passion for hockey, the Hughes brothers are set to inspire and entertain fans in both virtual and real arenas for years to come.