Historic NHL 25 Cover Features Hughes Brothers
EA Sports' NHL 25 has broken new ground by selecting Jack, Luke, and Quinn Hughes as the cover athletes, marking the first time in franchise history that siblings have shared this prestigious honor. The game, highly anticipated by hockey fans worldwide, is set for release on October 4, adding to the excitement of the upcoming NHL season.
Jack and Luke Hughes play for the New Jersey Devils, while Quinn Hughes serves as the captain of the Vancouver Canucks. The significance of this cover selection is underscored by the individual and collective accomplishments of the Hughes brothers. Quinn, who recently earned the Norris Trophy as the NHL’s top defenseman, reflected on the honor: "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." Jack Hughes, who was the first overall pick for the Devils in 2019, echoed this sentiment, "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.'"
Their rise to prominence can be traced back to the genes and guidance provided by their parents, both accomplished athletes. Their father, Jim Hughes, captained Providence College's hockey team and has had an illustrious coaching career, including stints with the Boston Bruins and Toronto Maple Leafs. He currently serves as 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, which won a silver medal at the 1992 world championships. Ellen also has experience as a coach and broadcaster.
The NHL season will kick off with a marquee match between the Buffalo Sabres and the New Jersey Devils in Prague, Czechia. This international stage is fitting for the Hughes brothers, who have not only excelled domestically but also honed their skills at the United States National Team Development Program, earning medals in various international events.
The Hughes brothers had their first on-ice showdown in an NHL game on December 5. In a thrilling contest, the Devils emerged victorious with a 6-5 win. Jack contributed three points, Luke netted a goal, and Quinn finished with two points, showcasing their competitive spirit and talent. This game marked only the second time in NHL history that three brothers from an American family played in the same match.
The selection of the Hughes brothers for the NHL 25 cover is not only a nod to their individual achievements but also to their collective impact on the sport. "For them to decide to attach their brand with the three of us was pretty cool," Quinn said. Luke added, "I think we grew up on the [video] game," highlighting how their lives have come full circle. The new game will feature the innovative "Ice-Q" feature, designed to enhance the gaming experience by marrying the athleticism and playmaking abilities of players like the Hughes brothers. Chris Haluke, from EA Sports, elaborated on this synergy: "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 Hughes brothers' journey from youth hockey to NHL stardom is a testament to hard work, family support, and a shared passion for the game. With Quinn drafted seventh by the Canucks in 2018, Jack going first overall in 2019, and Luke picked fourth in 2021, their careers continue to reach new heights. Jack summarized the family’s sentiment: "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."
As NHL 25's release date approaches, fans and players alike are eagerly anticipating not only the new features but also the symbolic endorsement of the Hughes brothers. This historic cover marks a new chapter in the NHL franchise, celebrating the achievements and potential of three exceptional athletes who are sure to leave a lasting impact on the ice and beyond.