Steven Stamkos on the Cover of NHL 12

At the 2011 NHL Awards, held at the Pearl Concert Theater of the Palms Hotel in Las Vegas, Electronic Arts announced that Steven Stamkos of the Tampa Bay Lightning would be the "face" of EA SPORTS NHL 12.

At the 2011 NHL Awards, held at the Pearl Concert Theater of the Palms Hotel in Las Vegas, Electronic Arts announced that Steven Stamkos of the Tampa Bay Lightning would be the "face" of EA SPORTS NHL 12.

At just 21 years old, Steven Stamkos has become one of the most successful rising stars in the NHL. He was selected in the first round of the 2008 draft and on February 6 of that same year, he became the first NHL player to surpass the 40-goal mark in the current season. His skill was rewarded with the Maurice Richard Trophy, awarded to the NHL players who score the most goals – which he received in 2010 along with Sidney Crosby. This year, Stamkos is nominated for the Ted Lindsay Award, annually presented to the "most outstanding player" in the NHL based on a vote by NHLPA members.

NHL 12 will go on sale in September, and Stamkos's photo will appear on the game's covers in all regions worldwide.