A Historic Cover: Hughes Brothers Make NHL 25 Debut
By [Journalist Name]
EA Sports has made a groundbreaking choice for the cover of NHL 25, featuring Jack, Luke, and Quinn Hughes. This decision marks the first time in the franchise’s history that siblings have graced the cover, bringing a unique narrative to the upcoming release. Scheduled to launch on October 4, NHL 25 is set to capture the excitement of fans and players alike, not only for its new features but also for this symbolic endorsement of the Hughes brothers.
The Brothers: A Talent-Rich Legacy
Jack and Luke Hughes currently play for the New Jersey Devils, while their brother Quinn Hughes captains the Vancouver Canucks. The Hughes brothers are not only impressive in their individual rights, but their familial bond brings a fresh dynamic to the league, celebrated now on the cover of the popular video game series. Quinn Hughes, recently honored with the prestigious Norris Trophy as the NHL’s top defenseman, shared his thoughts on this achievement, "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."
Their father, Jim Hughes, has a storied history of his own in hockey, having captained Providence College and serving as an assistant coach with the Boston Bruins and Toronto Maple Leafs. Currently the director of player development for the Maple Leafs, Jim Hughes's influence is mirrored in his sons' accomplishments. Their mother, Ellen Hughes, a multi-sport athlete at the University of New Hampshire, played on the US women’s national hockey team which won a silver medal at the 1992 world championships. She has also shared her expertise as a coach and broadcaster.
The Path to Stardom
The Hughes brothers have carved their paths through the NHL with significant milestones. Quinn Hughes was drafted seventh by the Canucks in 2018, with Jack Hughes following as the first overall pick for the Devils in 2019, and Luke Hughes being selected fourth by the Devils in 2021. Their collegiate careers at the University of Michigan echoed their family's commitment to excellence, with Quinn and Luke making significant impacts on their team.
The first on-ice clash between the Hughes brothers in the NHL occurred on December 5, a game that saw the Devils triumph over the Canucks 6-5. Jack Hughes recorded three points, Luke added a goal, and Quinn finished with two points. This game was only the second time an American family had three brothers play in the same NHL match, underscoring their unique achievement.
A Family Achievement
"For them to decide to attach their brand with the three of us was pretty cool," Quinn Hughes remarked, reflecting on the cover selection. It’s a sentiment echoed by Luke Hughes, who added, "I think we grew up on the [video] game."
The Hughes brothers have also represented the United States in various international competitions, winning medals and honing their skills at the United States National Team Development Program. Their on-ice performances are characterized by a blend of offensive and defensive prowess, playmaking ability, and skating skills, attributes that have now been immortalized through their association with NHL 25's "Ice-Q" feature.
Chris Haluke of EA Sports highlighted the synergy between the Hughes brothers' play styles and the game’s new feature: "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."
The Anticipation Builds
As the release date of NHL 25 approaches, excitement is building not just for the game but also for what this cover choice represents. Jack Hughes aptly summed up the achievement: "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, and I think we’re really excited with the final product."
The Hughes brothers’ journey to the cover of NHL 25 is a testament to their hard work, talent, and the strong family legacy that supports them. As the new NHL season kicks off with a marquee match between the Buffalo Sabres and the New Jersey Devils in Prague, Czechia, fans will be watching closely, inspired by the remarkable story of the Hughes siblings.