In a historic and groundbreaking decision, EA Sports has chosen Jack, Luke, and Quinn Hughes for the cover of NHL 25. This is a noteworthy moment, as it marks the first time in the history of the franchise that siblings have been featured on the cover. NHL 25, eagerly anticipated by fans, will be released on October 4 and promises to deliver new and exciting features, including the innovative "Ice-Q" functionality.
A Family Affair
The Hughes brothers have solidified their places in the NHL through consistent, exceptional performances. Jack and Luke Hughes play for the New Jersey Devils, while their older brother Quinn captains the Vancouver Canucks. Quinn's remarkable skills recently earned him the prestigious Norris Trophy, awarded to the league's top defenseman. Their achievements reflect both individual prowess and a family deeply embedded in hockey's culture.
Their father, Jim Hughes, boasts an impressive background as a captain at Providence College, with assistant coaching stints at the Boston Bruins and the Toronto Maple Leafs. Currently, he serves as the director of player development for the Maple Leafs. The talent in the family doesn’t stop there, as Ellen Hughes, their mother, was 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. Ellen has also worn multiple hats as a coach and broadcaster, contributing further to the family’s impressive legacy.
A Legacy of Excellence
The trajectory of the Hughes brothers' careers is marked by notable milestones. Quinn Hughes was selected seventh overall by the Canucks in the 2018 NHL Draft, followed by Jack Hughes, who was the first overall pick for the Devils in 2019. Luke Hughes, further cementing the family’s prominence, was picked fourth overall by the Devils in 2021. Quinn and Luke also left their mark at the collegiate level, starring at the University of Michigan before making their professional debuts.
The NHL witnessed a significant moment when all three brothers faced off in a game on December 5, a high-stakes match where the Devils triumphed over the Canucks 6-5. In this rare encounter, Jack scored three points, Luke netted a goal, and Quinn notched two points. This event marked only the second time in NHL history that three brothers from an American family played in the same game, adding another chapter to their family’s storied hockey legacy.
The Cover Decision and Its Significance
Featuring all three Hughes brothers on the cover of NHL 25 is not just a nod to their individual talents but also an acknowledgment of their collective impact on 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," Quinn Hughes expressed, conveying a sentiment shared by his brothers. Luke Hughes echoed this pride, noting, "I think we grew up on the [video] game".
The synergy between the brothers and the game's innovative features, such as "Ice-Q," played a critical role in EA Sports' choice. Chris Haluke of EA Sports remarked, "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."
Jack Hughes articulated the excitement surrounding their selection: "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.'” He added, "We were the same way growing up, and it's another really special opportunity that we grabbed at when it came toward us."
Anticipation for NHL 25
The upcoming release of NHL 25 not only capitalizes on the Hughes brothers’ marketability but also signifies a landmark moment in the game development. The inclusion of new features like "Ice-Q" is expected to enhance the gaming experience, aligning perfectly with the dynamic, versatile play styles of Jack, Luke, and Quinn Hughes. Both fans and gamers alike eagerly await the game’s launch, set to coincide with the beginning of the NHL season.
In a season opener that promises high excitement, the New Jersey Devils will face off against the Buffalo Sabres in Prague, Czechia. With Jack and Luke Hughes donning the Devils’ jerseys, the event serves as a prelude to what fans can expect in NHL 25 – a blend of heritage, innovation, and undeniable skill.
The Hughes family has made an indelible mark on the sport, spanning multiple generations and roles, from player to coach to developer. With NHL 25, their story adds yet another extraordinary chapter, immortalized not just in the annals of hockey history but also in the digital landscapes where future generations of players will draw inspiration.