Why Matthew Tkachuk’s NHL 26 Cover Spot Could Change the Game Forever

Matthew Tkachuk’s name is buzzing like wildfire — and now, he’s stepping onto another stage as the cover star for NHL 26. The Florida Panthers powerhouse, just three seasons into his Panthers tenure, has skyrocketed to legend status with back-to-back Stanley Cup wins in 2024 and 2025, and EA Sports has finally put a face to the next chapter of their beloved hockey franchise. It’s been decades since a Panther graced this spotlight—since John Vanbiesbrouck in ’97, to be exact—so this isn’t just any cover reveal; it’s electric, historic, and perfectly timed. Traders and gamers alike are eager for Wednesday’s full scoop from EA Sports, and with Tkachuk gearing up to represent Team USA next year at the Milan Cortina Olympics alongside his brother Brady, the story just keeps getting richer. Last year’s cover star, Quinn Hughes, set the bar with NHL 25, but there’s no denying the fresh, raw energy Tkachuk brings to NHL 26. Curious? Dive deeper and catch all the excitement firsthand. LEARN MORE

Florida Panthers star Matthew Tkachuk has been revealed as the cover athlete for the upcoming NHL 26 video game.

EA Sports is expected to release more details for the game on Wednesday.

He’s a tone-setter, a leader, and now a cover star.

Matthew Tkachuk is the face of #NHL26.

See the full reveal August 6th: https://t.co/gsLeVReKbu pic.twitter.com/S24tmSe834

— NHL (@NHL) August 4, 2025

Tkachuk is the first Panthers player to be on the cover since John Vanbiesbrouck in 1997.

The 27-year-old winger has only been with Florida for three seasons but has already led the Panthers to back-to-back Stanley Cup championships, in 2024 and 2025.

Tkachuk was traded to the Panthers in 2022 after six seasons with the Calgary Flames. Next year, Tkachuk will suit up for Team USA at the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics alongside his brother Brady Tkachuk of the Ottawa Senators.

Quinn Hughes of the Vancouver Canucks was the cover star last year of NHL 25.