In an unprecedented move, EA Sports has chosen brothers Jack, Luke, and Quinn Hughes to grace the cover of NHL 25, marking the first time in the franchise's history that siblings have been featured on the cover. This significant moment highlights not only the individual talents of the Hughes brothers but their collective impact on the sport of hockey.
A Historic Cover
The announcement that the Hughes brothers would be the face of the latest installment of EA Sports' NHL series has electrified the hockey community. "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," said Quinn Hughes, expressing the pride he and his brothers feel. Luke Hughes added, "I think we grew up on the [video] game," indicating the personal significance of this honor for the trio.
The Hughes Dynasty
Jack and Luke Hughes both play for the New Jersey Devils, while Quinn Hughes serves as the captain for the Vancouver Canucks. Their individual journeys to NHL stardom have been impressive. Jack was the NHL's first overall pick in 2019, Quinn was drafted seventh by the Canucks in 2018, and Luke was selected fourth by the Devils in 2021. Together, the brothers represent a remarkable line of talent that has taken the NHL by storm.
Their father, Jim Hughes, has a storied history in hockey as well, having captained Providence College and served as an assistant coach with the Boston Bruins and Toronto Maple Leafs. He currently works as the director of player development for the Maple Leafs. Their mother, Ellen Hughes, 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. Her experience as both a coach and broadcaster has undoubtedly contributed to her sons' development into elite athletes.
Achievements and Accolades
Quinn Hughes recently earned the Norris Trophy, awarded to the NHL’s top defenseman, further solidifying his standing as one of the league's premier players. The Hughes brothers also have a history of impressive performances on the international stage, having honed their skills at the United States National Team Development Program, and winning medals in various international events.
Their first matchup against each other in an NHL game took place on December 5, with the Devils emerging victorious over the Canucks, 6-5. Jack contributed three points, Luke netted a goal, and Quinn finished with two points, making it a memorable game for the family. It was only the second time that an American family had three brothers play in the same NHL match.
The New Feature
One of the most talked-about aspects of NHL 25 is the introduction of the "Ice-Q" feature. Chris Haluke, a key figure behind the game's development, explained the reasoning: "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."
This new feature, along with the Hughes brothers' endorsement, has set high expectations for NHL 25, which is set to be released on October 4. "For them to decide to attach their brand with the three of us was pretty cool," Quinn Hughes commented on their involvement with the game. Jack Hughes echoed this sentiment, saying, "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."
A Symbol of Excellence
The Hughes brothers' appearance on the cover of NHL 25 is more than just a marketing decision; it is a recognition of their extraordinary talent and the legacy of a family deeply rooted in the sport of hockey. As the NHL season opens with a marquee match between the Buffalo Sabres and the New Jersey Devils in Prague, Czechia, fans are eagerly anticipating both the new season and the release of NHL 25.
This historic cover symbolizes not only the achievements of Jack, Luke, and Quinn Hughes but also the bright future of hockey, with the next generation of stars ready to leave their mark on the game.