NHL 19 may not have been announced officially yet, but we can bet it is going to be confirmed at EA Play next month. What athlete will grace the cover of this year’s game? Here are our top 5 NHL 19 cover athlete predictions.
5. Nathan MacKinnon
Nathan MacKinnon is one of three players contending for the Hart Trophy this year. With a 97-point season, MacKinnon managed to pull the Colorado Avalanche up 47 points in the rankings. Year-over-year, that represents the fourth largest jump in points any team has made in the history of the league. With his rapid growth on and off the ice and his impressive leadership and athleticism, he is a strong contender not just for the Hart Trophy, but also for the cover of NHL 19.
4. Anze Kopitar
Anze Kopitar is another contender for the Hart Trophy, and for the cover of NHL 19. He had a dazzling season, setting new records for himself in terms of points, assists and goals. He has also been nominated for the Selke Trophy.
3. Taylor Hall
Placing sixth in the league overall with points, Taylor Hall is the second MVP finalist for the Devils. The first was Martin Brodeur, who didn’t win. So if Hall does get the trophy, it will be a first for his team.
2. Sidney Crosby
Sidney Crosby is on fire. He is not just one of the best hockey players in the league right now, but one of the best the league has ever seen. Earlier in his career he struggled with injuries, but has overcome to climb to the top. He’s not just excellent, he’s consistently excellent, and he never rests on his laurels. He continues to hone his game and improve, even when it doesn’t seem possible. An athlete like that would be a great choice for the cover of NHL 19.
1. Auston Matthews
Auston Matthews arguably is the most popular player in the NHL. His jersey is the top seller for the season, even beating out Sidney Crosby, whose jersey was the top seller last year. Quite a bit of attention has been drawn to his “struggles” during the playoffs, but he’s playing better than a lot of folks give him credit for even with his difficulties. Regardless, there’s no denying he’s the center of attention in the league right now.
You now have our predictions for which athlete might be featured on the cover of NHL 19. Keep checking our NHL news and updates over the weeks ahead!