If San Jose Sharks Center Macklin Celebrini’s stardom wasn’t big enough, the 20-year-old is rumored to make an even bigger leap, as per the latest revelation involving NHL 27.

This long-running NHL video game usually announces the cover athletes by late July or August. But with the release date set for September 11, 2026, the executive editor of Insider Gaming, Mike Straw, has already done his math.

“Who wants a tease for the NHL 27 cover?” his X post read on July 12, 2026. However, Straw didn’t forget to give a hint, adding, “It'll feature a team that's had a cover athlete before, but not in over 20 years.”

That directly hints at the Sharks, whose right wing, Owen Nolan, was the NHL 2001 cover star. After Nolan, center Joe Thornton also served as the cover athlete for NHL 2K7, but not for EA Sports. Moreover, Straw had more proof to back up his claim.

The executive editor decoded the pre-order link for the game, which pretty much gave away Celebrini’s name, as well as the Sharks. However, EA Sports has not officially confirmed anything.

Straw is reliable, but EA Sports' silence leaves room for surprise. However, it won’t be long before we get the proper revelation.

Cover Athlete Reveal Expected on July 16

According to Shark Hockey Digest’s writer Max Miller, Straw did some further research, more than just Celebrini or the Sharks’ names. Per Straw’s search, the game might reveal a trailer by July 16.

“Straw googled NHL 27, and while the link only says players should wishlist the game on consoles, Straw screenshotted information about a potential reveal,” wrote Miller. “If the original Google listing is correct, NHL 27 would be revealed on July 16th.”

Celebrini’s stellar 45 goals, 115 points season, and him being the 2024 overall draft pick only make a stronger case as to why he’s capable of representing the sport as a cover athlete. The 20-year-old’s rising popularity is another reason why he fits just right for this role.

July 16 might just end all these speculations at once.

Do you think Straw’s claims are right? Let us know in the comments.

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Written by

Deblina Roy