In an unprecedented move, EA Sports has chosen the Hughes brothers—Jack, Luke, and Quinn—to grace the cover of NHL 25, marking the first time siblings have been featured together on the cover of this iconic franchise. NHL fans and gamers alike are eagerly anticipating the game's release on October 4, which is poised to set a new standard for hockey video games.
The selection of the Hughes brothers is a remarkable homage to their influence on the game. Jack and Luke Hughes represent the New Jersey Devils, while their elder brother, Quinn, captains the Vancouver Canucks. This familial trio is not only exceptional due to their bloodline but also because of their individual achievements in 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," said Quinn Hughes, echoing the sentiment shared by his brothers. Indeed, their inclusion on the cover is a testament to their skills and contributions to hockey.
The Hughes Legacy
Quinn Hughes recently added another feather to his cap by earning the prestigious Norris Trophy, awarded to the NHL’s top defenseman. His brothers are not far behind in their accolades; Jack Hughes was the first overall pick by the Devils in 2019, and Luke Hughes was picked fourth by the Devils in 2021.
The hockey lineage continues with their father, Jim Hughes, a former captain at Providence College who 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, also boasts an impressive resume, having been a multi-sport athlete at the University of New Hampshire and a silver medalist with the US women’s national hockey team at the 1992 world championships.
"I think we grew up on the [video] game," Luke Hughes reminisced, emphasizing the special significance that NHL 25 holds for them. It's not just a testament to their talent but also a nod to their long-standing relationship with hockey video games.
A Historic Milestone
For the first time, the Hughes brothers faced each other in an NHL game on December 5. The match was a thrilling spectacle, with the Devils securing a 6-5 victory. Jack recorded three points, while Luke netted a goal, and Quinn finished with two points. This game marked only the second time in NHL history that an American family had three brothers competing in the same match, underscoring the rarity and significance of their accomplishment.
"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,'" shared Jack Hughes, capturing the excitement and pride that comes with this honor. For them, it’s a milestone that goes beyond individual achievements and celebrates their collective journey.
Anticipation for NHL 25
NHL 25 introduces a new feature called "Ice-Q," which promises to enhance the gaming experience by emphasizing the skillful play styles for which the Hughes brothers are known. "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," explained Chris Haluke of EA Sports.
Quinn Hughes summed up the significance of being featured on NHL 25 succinctly: "For them to decide to attach their brand with the three of us was pretty cool." This partnership not only underscores the Hughes brothers’ impressive careers but also elevates the new edition of the game to new heights.
As the NHL season kicks off with a highly anticipated match between the Buffalo Sabres and the New Jersey Devils in Prague, Czechia, the excitement surrounding the Hughes brothers and NHL 25 is palpable. "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," Jack Hughes reflected, appreciating the chance to share such a significant platform with his brothers.
The Hughes family has undeniably left an indelible mark on the sport. From their development at the United States National Team Development Program to their international accolades, their journey is nothing short of inspiring. NHL 25 not only celebrates their achievements but also anticipates the future of hockey gaming, making it one of the most awaited releases of the year.