Vancouver Canucks captain Quinn Hughes has earned recognition as the highest-ranked left-shot defenceman in EA Sports’ NHL 25 ahead of the video game’s October 4 release. Hughes secured a 94 overall in the latest ratings reveal, placing him second among all NHL defencemen, just behind Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche, who boasts a 95 rating.
Hughes’ rating reflects his rise to prominence, especially after a standout season where he captured his first Norris Trophy and posted a career-high 92 points. His stellar play places him among the top 10 overall players in the game. With a total of 43 goals and 333 points over 365 career games, Hughes has become a cornerstone for the Canucks’ blue line, a point echoed in his top-tier video game ranking.
Meanwhile, Makar remains a force on the ice for Colorado, coming off a 90-point season and solidifying his spot at the top of the NHL 25 defencemen rankings. Over 315 career games, Makar has racked up 336 points, including 86 goals. He’s averaged at least a point per game for three consecutive seasons, and his continued development shows no signs of slowing.
Both Hughes and Makar’s dominant presence on their respective teams allows the Canucks and Avalanche to approach games with a sense of confidence. These two defenders often play nearly half the game, alleviating much of the pressure for their teams. Hughes’ 94 rating and Makar’s 95 highlight just how elite they are, and fans of both players will likely enjoy controlling them in the upcoming video game.
Adding to the excitement, this year’s NHL 25 cover holds a special significance for Hughes. For the first time, the cover features three brothers — Quinn, Jack, and Luke Hughes. EA Sports noted that this moment is unlikely to be repeated, as the odds of three siblings all becoming NHL stars are slim. With Quinn now firmly established as one of the top defencemen in the league, this is a fitting honour for the Hughes family.
NHL 25 releases on October 4, offering fans the chance to step into the skates of hockey’s top stars, including Quinn Hughes and his brothers.