NHL 26 video game cover shared by Ottawa Senators captain Brady Tkachuk with his brother and father
Matthew Tkachuk, the dynamic forward for the Florida Panthers, has been unveiled as the cover athlete for EA Sports' upcoming NHL 26 video game. The announcement was made by EA Sports on Wednesday, with the Ottawa Senators' captain, Brady Tkachuk, joining his brother and father on the cover of the Deluxe Edition.
Matthew Tkachuk's appearance on the cover of NHL 26 is not his first time gracing an EA NHL game. His brother, Brady, has also previously been featured on the cover of an EA NHL game. The Tkachuk family's connection to the game extends further, as Keith Tkachuk, their father, will also be featured on the cover, wearing a St. Louis Blues jersey.
The Standard Edition of NHL 26 will feature Matthew Tkachuk alone, while the Deluxe Edition will showcase all three Tkachuks. Preorders for both editions are now available, with those who opt for the Deluxe Edition receiving early access starting from September 5. The game will be released on September 12, 2025, for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.
The Deluxe Edition of NHL 26 offers a week of early access and additional in-game items, as well as benefits like a 99 OVR player card. The game promises several gameplay enhancements, including NHL EDGE data, improved player abilities, and a revamped Be A Pro mode.
Matthew Tkachuk's key role in the Panthers' back-to-back Stanley Cup championships in the 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons has undoubtedly contributed to his selection as the cover athlete. Former Ottawa Senators captain Daniel Alfredsson held the honour for the Swedish version of NHL 09.
The reveal of the Deluxe Edition cover of NHL 26 was made on a date yet to be announced. The Ottawa Senators described the announcement about Brady Tkachuk's cover appearance as a "TKOVER!", signifying a significant victory for the team and its fans.
[1] EA Sports press release, 2025 [2] Ottawa Senators press release, 2025 [5] EA Sports website, 2025
- The Deluxe Edition of NHL 26 showcases not only Matthew Tkachuk but also his brother Brady and their father, Keith Tkachuk, making it a family affair on the cover.
- In addition to the Standard Edition, fans can also preorder the Deluxe Edition of NHL 26, which grants early access to the game starting from September 5, 2025.
- Following his key role in the Florida Panthers' back-to-back Stanley Cup championships, Matthew Tkachuk's selection as the cover athlete for NHL 26 is a testament to his prowess in sports, particularly hockey and the NHL.
