EA Sports has made a historic choice for the cover of its highly anticipated NHL 25, featuring the dynamic trio of Jack, Luke, and Quinn Hughes. This decision marks a significant milestone, as it is the first time in the franchise's history that siblings have adorned the cover.
NHL 25 is slated for release on October 4, coinciding with the start of the NHL season, which opens with an exciting match between the Buffalo Sabres and the New Jersey Devils in Prague, Czechia. Jack and Luke Hughes, both integral players on the New Jersey Devils, will be keen to showcase their talents, while their elder brother, Quinn, captains the Vancouver Canucks.
Siblings on the Cover
The selection of the Hughes brothers for the cover is a testament to their remarkable journey and achievements in the NHL. Quinn Hughes, who recently earned the esteemed Norris Trophy as the league's top defenseman, leads the way. His leadership on and off the ice reflects his dedication and skill, making him a standout choice for this honor.
Jack Hughes, who was the first overall pick for the Devils in 2019, and Luke Hughes, who was picked fourth by the Devils in 2021, have both rapidly emerged as key players for their team. Their prowess and contributions have been pivotal in their swift ascendancy within the league.
Family Ties and Athletic Lineage
The Hughes brothers hail from a family with a rich athletic legacy. Their father, Jim Hughes, was a captain at Providence College and has held coaching roles with the Boston Bruins and Toronto Maple Leafs. Currently, Jim serves as the director of player development for the Maple Leafs, further enhancing the family's deep connection to the sport.
Meanwhile, their mother, Ellen Hughes, boasts an impressive athletic portfolio herself. A multi-sport athlete at the University of New Hampshire, Ellen played on the US women's national hockey team, securing a silver medal at the 1992 world championships. Her experience as a coach and broadcaster adds another layer of expertise and inspiration for the Hughes brothers.
Emerging Stars and Memorable Moments
The Hughes brothers have already made their mark in the NHL with performances that capture the essence of their talent and hard work. Quinn was drafted seventh by the Canucks in 2018, and his journey has been a blend of consistent excellence and leadership.
One of the defining moments for the Hughes family took place on December 5, when all three brothers faced off in an NHL game for the first time. In a thrilling match that saw the New Jersey Devils emerge victorious with a 6-5 win, each brother displayed their skills with Jack scoring three points, Luke netting a goal, and Quinn finishing with two points. This game marked just the second time in NHL history that three brothers from an American family played in the same match.
Achievements and Development
The brothers have honed their skills through the United States National Team Development Program, which has been instrumental in shaping their playing styles and competitive edge. Their efforts have also earned them medals in various international events, underscoring their status as elite athletes on the global stage.
The Impact of NHL 25
The release of NHL 25 is highly anticipated not only for the cover featuring the Hughes brothers but also for its innovative features. The new "Ice-Q" feature stands out, aiming to enhance the gaming experience by reflecting the brothers' unique skating abilities and playmaking skills.
Personal Reflections
Reflecting on the honor of being on the cover, Quinn Hughes stated, "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 also shared his excitement, saying, "I think we grew up on the [video] game." The pride and enthusiasm are palpable as the brothers recognize the significance of this milestone.
Quinn further expressed his sentiments by adding, "For them to decide to attach their brand with the three of us was pretty cool." Jack Hughes echoed these feelings, noting, "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.'"
Jack's reflections underscore the personal and professional pride the Hughes brothers carry with this achievement. "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 concluded.
The Hughes brothers' journey and their appearance on the NHL 25 cover symbolize not only their individual talents but also their family's deep-rooted legacy in hockey. Fans and players alike eagerly await the release of NHL 25, ready to celebrate the Hughes brothers' remarkable contributions to the sport.