Macklin Celebrini Stars on NHL 27 Cover, Bringing Authentic Team Atmospheres to Life

Electronic Arts Inc. has unveiled EA SPORTS NHL 27, set to launch on September 11, 2026, on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. The game promises to bring all 32 NHL arenas to life with authentic atmospheres, presentation, and a new commentary team.

What's New in NHL 27?

EA SPORTS NHL 27 marks one of the most significant upgrades in franchise history. The game features a new dynamic crowd system, a modernized broadcast package, and a new social and competitive mode called Connected Franchise. This mode allows players to create, customize, and manage a shared online league with up to 32 human-controlled teams.

Macklin Celebrini on the Cover

San Jose Sharks forward Macklin Celebrini headlines the Standard and Deluxe Edition covers of EA SPORTS NHL 27. Celebrini's presence on the cover reflects a defining new era for the game, one that answers the call of the community with features like Connected Franchise, and grounds itself in true team identity.

Authentic Arenas and Presentation

The game's authentic arenas and presentation are designed to capture the sound, spectacle, and identity of each home team. Real-world goal songs, authentic pre-game presentation, and a fully overhauled crowd bring every building closer to its real-world counterpart. The game's developers have put in significant effort to ensure that every team looks, sounds, and plays like themselves from puck drop to the final horn.

Connected Franchise Mode

Connected Franchise is a new mode that allows players to create, customize, and manage a shared online league with up to 32 human-controlled teams. This mode offers flexible scheduling, comprehensive roster management, and robust commissioner tools designed to evolve alongside the community.

What Comes Next?

Pre-ordering the EA SPORTS NHL 27 Deluxe Edition will give players 7-day early access to the game. The Deluxe Edition also includes additional content, such as a new commentary team and a dynamic crowd system. Players who pre-order the Standard Edition will receive a standard set of features.

Macklin Celebrini's Thoughts on NHL 27

"I'm thrilled to be on the cover of EA SPORTS NHL 27," said Macklin Celebrini. "The detail the studio team put into it is honestly unreal. From our pre-game entrance skating out through the shark head and the iconic lighting on each seat throughout the stadium to hearing our goal song every time we score - it feels exactly like being out there for a real game."

The game's developers are confident that NHL 27 will deliver a game where players will feel the change the moment they take the ice. With its authentic arenas, presentation, and features like Connected Franchise, NHL 27 is shaping up to be one of the most immersive hockey experiences yet.

The game is set to launch on September 11, 2026, on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.