It’s been a long time since a Florida Panthers player graced the cover of a major NHL video game.
Much like the franchise’s extended playoff drought, decades between playoff series wins and 30 years without a championship, it was another streak that was due to end.
On Monday, EA Sports and the NHL announced that Panthers star Matthew Tkachuk would be the cover athlete for NHL 26.
It’s a very logical selection.
Tkachuk has helped Florida win back-to-back Stanley Cups and the Panthers are looking like the league’s next dynasty.
His ability to play such a unique style, equally combining elite hockey skills with relentless effort and physicality while also holding a mental edge over his opponents, has made Tkachuk one of the most polarizing players in the game.
It’s the first time a Panthers player has been selected for the cover of an EA Sports NHL release since John Vanbiesbrouck on NHL 97.
A full preview for the game is set to come out on Wednesday, and the game itself is reportedly set for a Sept. 13 release.
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Photo caption: Jun 24, 2024; Sunrise, Florida, USA; Florida Panthers forward Matthew Tkachuk (19) hoists the Stanley Cup after defeating Edmonton Oilers in game seven of the 2024 Stanley Cup Final at Amerant Bank Arena. (Jim Rassol-Imagn Images)