A Historic Cover: Hughes Brothers Make NHL 25 Unforgettable
EA Sports has unveiled a groundbreaking decision for the cover of NHL 25: brothers Jack, Luke, and Quinn Hughes will be the new faces of the franchise. This unprecedented move marks the first time siblings have graced the cover of the popular video game series, adding another layer of excitement for fans eagerly awaiting its release on October 4.
The announcement has resonated widely in the hockey community, combining a poignant family narrative with innovative features. Quinn Hughes, who captains the Vancouver Canucks and recently earned the Norris Trophy as the NHL’s top defenseman, expressed the family's collective pride, saying, "I think all of us are just honored because it's a hard thing to be on the cover, and there are so many great players in the league."
The timing couldn’t be more perfect, as the upcoming NHL season kicks off with a marquee match between the Buffalo Sabres and the New Jersey Devils in Prague, Czechia. Jack and Luke Hughes, both pivotal players for the New Jersey Devils, are well placed to represent their team on such a significant stage. The synergy among the brothers has undoubtedly contributed to the Hughes family's crowning achievements.
The Hughes family’s influence on hockey is expansive, rooted deeply in their parents' athletic pedigrees. Their father, Jim Hughes, has a storied career, having captained Providence College before serving as an assistant coach with the Boston Bruins and Toronto Maple Leafs. Currently, he is 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, winning a silver medal at the 1992 world championships. Ellen also has experience as a coach and broadcaster, further underscoring the athletic dynamism coursing through the Hughes family.
Jack, the first overall pick for the Devils in 2019, and Luke, selected fourth by the Devils in 2021, both developed their skills at the United States National Team Development Program and starred at the University of Michigan. As Quinn recalled, “I think we grew up on the [video] game.” Now, they ascend to iconic status, not only in real-life hockey but in the digital realm as well.
Their collective journey reached a notable milestone on December 5 when the Hughes brothers faced off in an NHL game for the first time. It was a thrilling contest, with the Devils edging out a 6-5 victory. Jack contributed three points, Luke added a goal, and Quinn finished with two points. The event marked only the second time in history that an American family had three brothers play in the same NHL match, highlighting the unique talent and dedication within the Hughes lineage.
Chris Haluke from EA Sports remarked on the decision, noting the brothers' exceptional play styles and how these influenced the game's latest features. “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.”
The anticipation for NHL 25 is heightened by the inclusion of the new "Ice-Q" feature, which is set to revolutionize the gaming experience. "For them to decide to attach their brand with the three of us was pretty cool," said Quinn Hughes, underlining the collaboration’s significance.
Moreover, the Hughes brothers' story is a testament to hard work, family support, and immense talent. Their achievements span a multitude of levels, from collegiate and international success to NHL stardom. Their father, Jim, and mother, Ellen, have provided more than just genetic gifts—they have instilled a work ethic and passion for the game that is palpable in each son's performance.
Each brother brings a unique flair to their respective teams. Jack is known for his electrifying speed and playmaking ability, Luke is lauded for his defensive skills and scoring touch, and Quinn's leadership and versatility have been instrumental to the Canucks. "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,'" said Jack Hughes.
NHL 25’s release is not just anticipated for the game's new features but also for the symbolic endorsement of familial unity and excellence embodied by the Hughes brothers. As Jack encapsulated, “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.”
In an era where video games are an integral part of sports culture, the Hughes brothers on the cover of NHL 25 are more than just a marketing move; they represent the pinnacle of youthful talent, hard work, and family heritage in modern hockey.