In a groundbreaking move, EA Sports has announced the inaugural nominees for the NHL 25 Team of the Year (TOTY) awards, featuring the inclusion of Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) players for the first time in the franchise’s history. This landmark decision showcases EA’s commitment to recognizing excellence across the hockey world and elevating the profile of women’s professional hockey.
NHL 25 Ushers in a New Era of Hockey Recognition
The NHL series has long been renowned for celebrating the best and brightest stars in the sport through its annual TOTY selections. However, NHL 25 marks a significant step forward by expanding the nominee pool to include the talented athletes of the PWHL. This inclusive approach not only highlights the skill and dedication of these elite women but also introduces a fresh dynamic to the highly anticipated TOTY event.
Unveiling the Initial TOTY Nominees
EA Sports has revealed the first wave of nominees, focusing on the defensive and goaltending positions. From perennial fan favorites to rising stars, the list features a diverse array of talent from both the NHL and PWHL.
Notable NHL nominees include:
- Evan Bouchard
- Cale Makar
- Quinn Hughes
- Roman Josi
- Adam Fox
Among the goaltenders, the NHL nominees feature:
- Igor Shesterkin
- Connor Hellebuyck
- Sergei Bobrovsky
The PWHL nominees showcase the league’s defensive prowess with:
- Erin Ambrose
- Megan Keller
- Ella Shelton
- Renata Fast
- Savannah Harmon
Between the pipes, the PWHL goaltending nominees include:
- Kristin Campbell
- Aerin Frankel
- Ann-Renée Desbiens
The Road to TOTY Glory
With 30 players in total nominated across both leagues, the competition for the coveted TOTY spots is fierce. EA Sports will reveal the nominees for the forward positions in the coming days, further intensifying the anticipation surrounding the final selection.
From the initial pool of 30, only six players from each league will earn the prestigious TOTY distinction. These chosen few will be immortalized with special player cards in Hockey Ultimate Team, featuring exclusive artwork, enhanced attributes, and immense potential for growth.
“The inclusion of the PWHL in NHL 25’s TOTY program is a game-changer. It not only celebrates the incredible talent in women’s hockey but also inspires the next generation of players. We’re thrilled to be part of this historic moment.”
– Sarah Nurse, PWHL star and NHL 25 cover athlete
Elevating Hockey Ultimate Team
For fans eagerly awaiting the chance to add these exceptional players to their Hockey Ultimate Team rosters, EA Sports has outlined the process. Special TOTY nominee player cards will be available in packs from January 22-24, allowing players to get an early taste of the nominees’ enhanced skills.
Once the final TOTY selections are announced, those who have collected the nominee cards will have the opportunity to exchange them for the even more powerful TOTY winner versions. These coveted cards will boast boosted attributes, unique visual designs, and the potential for further upgrades throughout the season.
A Milestone Moment for Hockey Gaming
The introduction of PWHL players into the NHL 25 TOTY program represents a significant milestone for hockey gaming and the sport as a whole. By celebrating excellence across gender lines, EA Sports is not only fostering inclusivity but also showcasing the depth and breadth of hockey talent worldwide.
As fans eagerly await the reveal of the forward nominees and the ultimate TOTY selections, one thing is clear: NHL 25 is poised to deliver an unforgettable experience that embraces the past, present, and future of hockey. With the PWHL taking its rightful place alongside the NHL, the stage is set for a new era of digital ice heroics.
“This is more than just a game feature; it’s a reflection of the growing respect and admiration for women’s hockey. EA Sports is leading the charge in celebrating the sport’s diversity and skill. It’s an exciting time to be a hockey fan.”
– Cassie Campbell-Pascall, former Olympic gold medalist and NHL analyst
As the countdown to the final NHL 25 TOTY reveal begins, hockey enthusiasts around the globe are gearing up for an unprecedented celebration of the sport’s finest athletes. With the inclusion of the PWHL, EA Sports has not only raised the bar for hockey gaming but has also taken a significant step towards a more inclusive and representative future for the beloved franchise.
