The Hughes Brothers Make History on NHL 25 Cover
In a historic move for hockey gaming aficionados, EA Sports has selected Jack, Luke, and Quinn Hughes to feature on the cover of NHL 25. This is a groundbreaking choice, as it marks the first time in the franchise’s history that siblings have graced the cover.
The game is set for release on October 4, just in time for the NHL season opener, which will see the Buffalo Sabres face off against the New Jersey Devils in Prague, Czechia. It's no coincidence that two of the Hughes brothers, Jack and Luke, play for the New Jersey Devils, while Quinn captains the Vancouver Canucks.
"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 said, emphasizing the significance of this achievement.
A Family of Achievements
The Hughes family has an illustrious history in hockey. Quinn Hughes recently earned the prestigious Norris Trophy as the NHL’s top defenseman. Their father, Jim Hughes, once captained Providence College and has served as an assistant coach with the Boston Bruins and Toronto Maple Leafs. Jim is also currently the director of player development for the Maple Leafs.
Their mother, Ellen Hughes, adds to this stellar lineage. A multi-sport athlete at the University of New Hampshire, Ellen played on the US women's national hockey team, winning a silver medal at the 1992 world championships. She also has experience as a coach and broadcaster.
Quinn Hughes was drafted seventh by the Canucks in 2018, while Jack Hughes was the first overall pick for the Devils in 2019. Luke Hughes, the youngest of the trio, was picked fourth by the Devils in 2021.
The Hughes Impact
The Hughes brothers' on-ice talents are well-documented. Quinn and Luke both starred at the University of Michigan, honing their skills further at the United States National Team Development Program. Their first professional face-off occurred on December 5, when the Devils clinched a thrilling 6-5 victory. Jack made a significant impact with three points, while Luke netted a goal and Quinn finished with two points.
This game marked only the second time an American family had three brothers play in the same NHL match, a testament to the Hughes family's exceptional talent and dedication to the sport.
Jack Hughes expressed his excitement about being part of NHL 25's cover, a career milestone. "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 noted.
The "Ice-Q" Feature
NHL 25 introduces the "Ice-Q" feature, which has been highly anticipated by gamers and hockey fans alike. According to Chris Haluke, a key figure in the game's development, "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."
Luke Hughes, reminiscing on their journey, said, "I think we grew up on the [video] game." This sentiment underscores the full-circle moment for the brothers, who have transitioned from avid gamers to cover stars.
Jack Hughes added, "For them to decide to attach their brand with the three of us was pretty cool. 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."
Symbolic Endorsement
The selection of the Hughes brothers for the NHL 25 cover is more than just a marketing decision; it symbolizes the duo's hockey prowess and the familial dedication to the sport. This endorsement not only highlights their skills but also acts as an inspirational beacon for aspiring players everywhere.
As the release date of NHL 25 approaches and the NHL season kicks off, the spotlight will be firmly on the Hughes brothers. Their influence on and off the ice continues to grow, marking another chapter in the storied legacy of one of hockey's most remarkable families.