EA Sports has confirmed that Florida Panthers star Matthew Tkachuk will be the cover athlete for NHL 26. The official reveal of the game is set for August 6, making this the first time Tkachuk has fronted the cover of the long-running hockey franchise. He follows NHL 25‘s cover star, Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche.
Back-to-back Stanley Cups and playoff grit
Tkachuk, 27, has been instrumental in the Panthers’ back-to-back Stanley Cup wins, contributing 45 points (14 goals, 31 assists) across both playoff runs. In the 2024–25 postseason alone, he notched 8 goals and 15 assists over 23 games, despite battling serious injuries, including a torn adductor and sports hernia.
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A strong career and international buzz
Over his nine-year NHL career, split between the Calgary Flames and Florida Panthers, Tkachuk has racked up 636 points in 642 regular season games. He’s also posted 84 points in 94 playoff games. Beyond the league, he grabbed headlines during the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament, where he ignited renewed rivalry by dropping gloves with Canada’s Brandon Hagel seconds into the match.
Injury setback looms ahead of new season
Despite the cover spotlight, there’s uncertainty around Tkachuk’s availability at the start of the upcoming NHL season. Reports suggest he may miss the first half due to injury but could return in time for the Olympic break, where he’s expected to represent Team USA.
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Full game reveal and expected release
EA Sports will unveil more details about NHL 26 during its official presentation on Wednesday. While the launch date hasn’t been confirmed yet, the game is expected to drop in early or mid-September, in line with past releases.
Q1. Who is the cover athlete for NHL 26?
A1. EA Sports has named Florida Panthers winger Matthew Tkachuk as the cover athlete for NHL 26.
Q2. When will NHL 26 be officially revealed?
A2. The full reveal is scheduled for August 6, 2025.
Q3. Is this Matthew Tkachuk’s first time on the cover?
A3. Yes, this is his first appearance as the cover athlete for the EA Sports NHL series.
Q4. What is Tkachuk’s recent playoff performance?
A4. In the latest playoff run, he scored 23 points in 23 games, playing through serious injuries.
Q5. When will NHL 26 be released?
A5. While no official release date has been announced, it’s expected to launch in early to mid-September, following the usual EA Sports timeline.
Q6. Will Tkachuk play in the 2025–26 NHL season?
A6. Reports suggest he may miss the first half of the season due to injury but could return around the Olympic break.
Q7. Is Tkachuk expected to play in the Olympics?
A7. Yes, he is likely to represent Team USA if fit during the Olympic tournament.
