NHL 26 is all about this individuality. Setting a new standard for hockey realism, every star plays more like their real-life counterpart with the new ICE-Q 2.0 fueled by NHL EDGE positional data (NHL EDGE Puck and Player Tracking). Real-world sport data now informs player attributes and personal tendencies. Skating speed, shot power, unique behaviors and signature moves are reflected in the game, giving true hockey fans a strategic advantage. The new Goalie Crease Control System also makes netminders more responsive, with smarter positioning and quicker, more natural saves. Combined with an expanded set of X-Factors that amplify superstar abilities with unique playstyle animations and gameplay outcomes, fans will experience a deeper connection to their favorite players, whether they’re controlling them or playing against them.

The fully revamped fan-favorite Be A Pro mode gives players full control over their journey from rookie to NHL superstar. Fresh storylines, new characters, high-stakes challenges, and cutscenes make the experience more realistic and engaging than ever before. From competing in the World Juniors to the draft or working their way from the minors back to the big leagues, players will craft their own legacy on and off the ice.

The new HUT Seasons will give players an all-new, dynamic way to compete by introducing new team-building mechanics, ranked matches, and an offline mode geared for those who prefer to play at their own pace, the HUT Cup Chase. With new Heroes and Icons player cards added each season to celebrate the greatest to ever lace up their skates, plus visual upgrades that elevate every moment, players will experience this and much more in NHL 26.

EA SPORTS shared more of the upcoming changes fans can look forward to in NHL 26 with the above Deep Dive spotlighting what’s next for Hockey Ultimate Team.

This year’s updates make HUT a more dynamic, flexible and rewarding experience for both dedicated hockey veterans and rookies alike.

NHL 26 introduces HUT Seasons, a new game mode that raises the stakes of every match-up and offers more ways to play than ever before, from intense ranked modes to more casual HUT Mini Seasons. Accessibility and freshness are at the core of this year’s updates, making it easier for players to jump into the action while continuing to provide new rewards and reasons to return throughout the season.

Here’s a look at the notable changes coming to HUT in NHL 26:

• Maximum Team Building Variety: NHL 26 gives fans more freedom than ever to construct the ultimate lineup, utilizing innovative new mechanics sure to keep team-building fresh all year long. Season-specific rules, rotating team captain themes and unique player combinations unlock powerful boosts to OVR, attributes, and salaries, while a streamlined interface makes squad management smooth and intuitive. The introduction of a Salary Cap also pushes players to be thoughtful about who they add to their squads, encouraging smarter roster construction and strategic balance of players.
• HUT Ranked Competitive Matches For Hardcore Players: Designed for players who thrive in high-stakes competition, Ranked Competitive Matches let fans test their skills against the best of the best as they climb the leaderboard. Players will build their squad, battle for position and prove that they have what it takes to attain championship glory.
  • Matchmaking Structure: NHL 26 introduces Matchmaking Floors, ensuring players won’t ever drop below their earned division within a given season. The top players will qualify for HUT Champs, the pinnacle of ranked play.
  • Restructured Rewards: With a restructured rewards system, every game counts and progression is more transparent with better-defined tiers. Exclusive rewards and jerseys will be up for grabs.
• Take the Competition Offline With HUT Cup Chase: Players can now take on the challenge of a full season in offline play, battling the CPU across 18 league games before heading into a two-round playoff. Those who advance through the bracket will chase the championship and lift the HUT Cup to unlock exclusive seasonal rewards. HUT Cup Chase also removes leaderboards and replaces them with a dedicated rewards track, giving steady, tangible reward progression.
• Explore All New Heroes And Icons Player Cards: Each season, new Heroes and Icons player cards expand the HUT roster, allowing players to take control of the game’s most impactful stars across teams and eras. Heroes represent athletes who left an indelible mark on hockey history with unforgettable performances and deep legacies, while Icons embody the true legends of the sport, the greatest to ever lace up skates. Together, these new card types add a dynamic new edge to team-building and bring more variety to lineups. Fans can look forward to multiple drops for Heroes and Icons throughout the year.

 

Players who pre-order the Deluxe Edition will receive up to seven days of early access, a multitude of perks including Matthew Tkachuk at 99 OVR as an immediate reward in NHL 25, 4600 NHL Points, HUT Starter Choice Pack and much more. All pre-order editions and information can be found here, loyalty offers with up to 10% off are also available.

EA Play members can enjoy a 10-hour early access trial starting September 5th, 2025 and other rewards including 3,000 WOC Coins and Season Pass XP Multiplier Tokens. They also receive 10% off EA digital content including pre-orders, game downloads, NHL Points, and DLC.

EA Sports NHL 26 is coming to PS5 and Xbox Series X|S on September 12, 2025.