In a landmark decision for EA Sports, the company has chosen brothers Jack, Luke, and Quinn Hughes as the cover athletes for NHL 25, marking the first time ever that siblings have shared the cover in the franchise’s history. This unprecedented choice amplifies the anticipation for NHL 25, which is set to be released on October 4.
First-Time Siblings
The Hughes brothers' selection is a historic moment, spotlighting their remarkable skills and contributions to 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 commented on this monumental recognition.
Jack and Luke Hughes, both key players for the New Jersey Devils, join their older brother Quinn Hughes, who captains the Vancouver Canucks, in this significant honor. The trio has collectively given the hockey world countless memorable moments, both domestically and on the international stage.
Hockey Pedigree
Hockey talent runs deep in the Hughes family. Their father, Jim Hughes, a former captain at Providence College, served as an assistant coach with the Boston Bruins and Toronto Maple Leafs. Presently, he’s the director of player development for the Maple Leafs. Equally notable is their mother, Ellen Hughes, a multi-sport athlete and an alumna of the University of New Hampshire. Ellen also played on the US women’s national hockey team, which clinched a silver medal at the 1992 world championships, and later pursued a career in coaching and broadcasting.
Draft Days
Each Hughes brother has a remarkable draft story. Quinn was selected seventh overall by the Canucks in 2018, Jack was the first overall pick by the Devils in 2019, and Luke went fourth overall to the Devils in 2021. Their draft success highlights their immense potential and the significant impact they’ve already had on their respective teams.
Highlight Moments
The Hughes brothers faced off in an NHL game for the first time on December 5, providing fans with an unforgettable spectacle. The Devils clinched a 6-5 victory, with Jack scoring three points, Luke adding a goal, and Quinn finishing with two points. This game was only the second in NHL history to feature three American brothers competing against each other.
Anticipation for NHL 25
Chris Haluke, a representative from EA Sports, lauded the brothers' unique skill sets, explaining the rationale behind their selection. “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,” he said.
The new "Ice-Q" feature in NHL 25 is generating considerable excitement, with the game’s release eagerly anticipated by fans and players alike. The Hughes brothers' endorsement plays a significant role in this heightened interest.
Brothers' Reflections
The Hughes brothers have expressed immense pride and excitement at their selection. “For them to decide to attach their brand with the three of us was pretty cool,” Quinn Hughes remarked. Jack Hughes echoed this sentiment, 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.'”
“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 added, reflecting on their own experiences as players and fans of the game.
Season Opener
Adding to the excitement, the upcoming NHL season kicks off with a marquee match between the Buffalo Sabres and the New Jersey Devils in Prague, Czechia. Fans will undoubtedly keep a close eye on Jack and Luke Hughes as they take to the ice, embodying the legacy and future of hockey.
The cover of NHL 25 symbolizes not just the individual accomplishments of Jack, Luke, and Quinn Hughes but also celebrates their collective impact on the sport. As fans await the release of the game, the Hughes brothers continue to inspire the next generation of hockey enthusiasts, just as they were inspired themselves.