EA Sports has shared a closer look at what’s coming to NHL 26 highlighting the changes headed to Hockey Ultimate Team in the latest deep dive. The goal this year is to make the mode more rewarding and flexible, giving both longtime players and newcomers more ways to enjoy the experience.
A major addition is HUT Seasons, a new mode that raises the stakes in every matchup. Players can battle it out in ranked competition or take on shorter HUT Mini Seasons for a more laid-back approach, offering something for both competitive and casual playstyles.
Team building is getting a big upgrade in NHL 26 with more ways than ever to put together a lineup. Season-specific rules, rotating captain themes and unique player combinations can boost overall ratings, attributes and even salaries. A new Salary Cap system adds strategy to roster construction, while the updated interface makes managing squads much smoother.
Competitive play is also being refined with changes to Ranked Matches. Matchmaking Floors make sure players never drop below the division they’ve already earned, while the top performers can earn a spot in HUT Champs. The reward system has been rebuilt with clearer tiers, exclusive items and custom jerseys for those who keep climbing the ladder.
For players who prefer going solo, HUT Cup Chase introduces a full season experience against the CPU. It features 18 league games followed by a two-round playoff with the chance to raise the HUT Cup and claim exclusive rewards. Instead of leaderboards, this mode comes with its own rewards track, so progress feels steady and consistent.
NHL 26 will also introduce new Heroes and Icons cards each season. Heroes spotlight players known for unforgettable performances and lasting legacies, while Icons highlight the game’s true all-time greats.
Fans can dive into all the HUT 26 details by checking out the official blog.
NHL 26 launches September 12 on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, with Deluxe Edition pre-orders giving players early access starting September 5. Full details on each edition are available here.
