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NHL Covers: A Comprehensive Examination

Introduction

The NHL cover is a highly coveted honor in the hockey world, reserved for the most iconic and influential players in the league. Throughout the years, the cover of the NHL video game has featured some of the greatest names in hockey history, from Wayne Gretzky to Connor McDavid. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the history, significance, and selection process of the NHL cover, providing you with all the need-to-know information about this prestigious honor.

History of the NHL Cover

The tradition of the NHL cover began in 1991 with the release of NHL Hockey for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. The inaugural cover featured Mario Lemieux, the Pittsburgh Penguins captain and one of the greatest players of all time. Since then, the NHL cover has become an annual tradition, with a new player gracing the cover of each year's video game.

Significance of the NHL Cover

Being featured on the cover of the NHL video game is a significant achievement for any player. It is a testament to their exceptional skills, popularity, and status as a role model for young hockey fans. The cover also provides invaluable marketing exposure for the player, helping to increase their profile and attract new fans.

Selection Process

The selection process for the NHL cover is highly competitive, with a select group of players being considered each year. EA Sports, the developer of the NHL video game, considers a variety of factors when making their decision, including:

Player performance
Popularity among fans
Marketability
Fit with the game's theme

Past NHL Covers

Over the years, the NHL cover has featured some of the most iconic players in hockey history. Some notable past covers include:

Wayne Gretzky (1991, 1993)
Mario Lemieux (1991, 1993, 1995, 1997)
Patrick Roy (1994, 1996)
Sidney Crosby (2007, 2012, 2016)
Connor McDavid (2015, 2017, 2019, 2021)

Effective Strategies for Getting on the NHL Cover

While there is no guaranteed formula for getting on the NHL cover, there are certain strategies that players can employ to increase their chances:

Dominate on the ice: The most important factor is to perform exceptionally well on the ice. This includes scoring goals, setting up teammates, and playing strong defense.
Build a strong fan base: Players who have a large and loyal fan base are more likely to be considered for the cover. Engaging with fans on social media and participating in community events can help build a strong rapport.
Partner with brands: Aligning with reputable brands can help players increase their visibility and marketability, making them more appealing to EA Sports.
Be a role model: Players who are known for their sportsmanship, work ethic, and community involvement are often looked upon favorably by EA Sports.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There are also some common mistakes that players should avoid when trying to get on the NHL cover:

Focusing too much on personal stats: While individual performance is important, players should also focus on team success and contributing to their overall game.
Being controversial: Players who engage in negative behavior or make controversial statements may damage their chances of being selected for the cover.
Not being marketable: Players who are not marketable or do not fit with the game's theme may be less likely to be considered for the cover, regardless of their on-ice performance.

FAQs about the NHL Cover

1. Who has been on the NHL cover the most times?
Mario Lemieux and Sidney Crosby have both been on the NHL cover five times.

2. What is the most popular NHL cover?
The NHL 94 cover featuring Wayne Gretzky and Mario Lemieux is widely considered to be the most popular NHL cover.

3. What is the first NHL cover to feature multiple players?
The NHL 07 cover was the first to feature multiple players, with Sidney Crosby and Alexander Ovechkin sharing the spotlight.

4. Who is the youngest player to ever be on the NHL cover?
Connor McDavid was just 18 years old when he first appeared on the NHL cover in 2015.

5. Who is the oldest player to ever be on the NHL cover?
Teemu Selanne was 38 years old when he was featured on the cover of NHL 14.

Additional Resources

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this guide is for informational purposes only and does not guarantee that any player will be featured on the NHL cover. The selection process is highly competitive, and many factors are considered.