Central STL News

Keith Tkachuk and his sons, Matthew and Brady, are featured on the cover of the NHL 26 Deluxe Edition video game, according to an announcement from EA Sports. The company said the selection "highlights a family that's carved its own path with individuality, edge and an unyielding drive to win."

Keith Tkachuk played 18 seasons in the NHL, including nine with the St. Louis Blues. Over his career, he scored 538 goals and recorded 1,065 points in 1,201 games. He was named a five-time All-Star and accumulated 2,219 penalty minutes. In 2024, he was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame and currently works in the team's front office.

Matthew and Brady Tkachuk spent their childhood in St. Louis while their father played for the Blues. Both have since established themselves as key players in the league: Matthew has won two Stanley Cups with the Florida Panthers, while Brady serves as captain of the Ottawa Senators.

"I always told the boys to play hard, be smart and never lose their personality out there," Keith told EA. "What you see now is two players with totally unique styles, and I'm proud to be sharing the cover with them."

EA Sports stated that this year's edition introduces ICE-Q 2.0 technology powered by NHL EDGE puck and player tracking data for enhanced realism. Additional features include a Goalie Crease Control System, expanded X-Factors abilities for players, an updated Be a Pro mode, among others.

NHL 26 will be released on September 12 for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S consoles. Preorders offer up to seven days of early access.