As the season winds down, preparations are already under way in some places for next season. That includes the EA Sports NHL video game series, which needs a cover player for next year's game. As a result, they're opening up a vote to the fans to pick the winner.
In today's world, making the cover of a popular video game like EA Sports' NHL series is kind of a big deal. Lots of people buy the games, it's akin to being on the cover of Sports Illustrated these days. And considering hockey never really makes the cover of SI that gives the video game a little more cachet.
Unlike the SI cover or the NFL video game series of Madden, you actually want to be on this cover. There's no jinx to speak of. Just take EA's word for it.
So you see, you want to have a player from your favorite team on the cover. Heck, the players want to be on the cover. Multiple players began campaigning on their Twitter accounts for your votes. David Perron of the Blues, for example, is going to give one fan a 60-minute on-ice session, including gear, with him for anybody that votes for him.
Here's how it works. Each team starts with two representatives squaring off against one another. For example, the Flyers have Claude Giroux vs. Scott Hartnell. Last year's cover boy, Steven Stamkos, is back in the running this season.
Some of the choices though are less than enthusiastic. The Capitals? No Alex Ovechkin or Nicklas Backstrom. Nope, it's Brooks Laich or John Carlson . Or there's backup Bruins goaltender Tuukka Rask against Tyler Seguin. Your choices in the Flames battle? Matt Stajan or Mikael Backlund.
Here are the details you need to vote away. And remember, EA Sports says there is no curse here.
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