EA returns NHL to the rink

Though real NHL players may be having an extra long vacation thanks to a canceled season, the puckheads up at EA Canada have been busy at work. Electronic Arts today announced that its popular ice hockey franchise is returning with NHL 06. The game is scheduled for a fall release on the GameCube, Xbox, PlayStation 2, and PC.

The newest edition of NHL introduces the Skill Stick to the series, giving offensive players an easier chance to score. The addition adds a bevy of new moves, including toe drags, bat-ins, and between-the-leg shots.

EA today also announced that Tampa Bay Lightning All-Star center Vincent Lecavalier will be this year's cover athlete. The native of Quebec was instrumental in leading the Lightning to Lord Stanley's Cup in 2004, and was named the MVP of the 2004 World Cup of Hockey.

NHL 06 may be the only way hockey fans can get their fix. After hopes of salvaging the 2004-2005 NHL season through discussions between the players' association and team owners failed, NHL commissioner Gary Bettman canceled the season in February. There is still optimism in saving the 2005-2006 season--the two sides begin a series of meetings today in Toronto.

GameSpot will have more information on NHL 06 soon.

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