EA Sports to Replace Patrick Kane on Cover of NHL 10?

As reported in numerous news sources across North America, forward Patrick Kane of the Chicago Blackhawks was arrested early Sunday morning for allegedly robbing a cab driver in downtown Buffalo.

Kane, along with his cousin, is being charged with second-degree robbery, fourth-degree criminal mischief, and theft of services.

Earlier this spring Kane was selected by Electronic Arts to be on the cover of their upcoming title NHL 10, set to hit stores Sept. 15 on the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 consoles.

Not too long ago, EA had to deal with a similar event. NHL 2004 was slated to feature Joe Thornton on the cover, but he was quickly removed in favour of Dany Heatley after being brought up on assault charges. Later on Heatley was also removed after killing teammate Dan Snyder in a car accident.

EA replaced Heatley with Joe Sakic, but not until the first shipments of the game were released worldwide. Chances are that if—and when—EA decides to replace Kane's cover picture with another NHLer, the game will have already surfaced with the former Calder Trophy winner's photograph.

Coming to that conclusion—an early one, too—it would be wise of the Canadian-based gaming giant to look for another spokesperson for their highly anticipated product.

Here's a look at who could find his picture on the cover of NHL 10.

Sidney Crosby

Contrary to popular belief, Sid the Kid has never been on the front of a video game. The 22-year-old is coming off of his fourth NHL campaign in which he won his first Stanley Cup. His skill—added with the fact that he consistently contributes to his community and is a great role model for kids—makes him an easy candidate for this position.

Zach Parise

Only one American has ever been on the cover of any "NHL Series" games, and that would be goaltender John Vanbiesbrouck. Parise is one of the game's top young stars today and could really help grow the game in the United States, both on the ice and on the gaming platform.

Roberto Luongo

Speaking of goaltenders, the "Beezer" was the only netminder to appear on the front of an EA production—and that was in 1997. If any goalie was to be named to the game, it would be Luongo. The Vancouver Canucks captain is widely considered the best goalie in the league and is entering the prime of his career.

Ryan Getzlaf

For anybody who has been following the production and features of NHL 10, Getzlaf is the type of player who best replicates the qualities of being "tough enough." The Regina native can score, hit, kill penalties, and outwork opponents to achieve success. The Cup ring on his finger from 2007 can back up that statement.

Pavel Datsyuk

Datsyuk is arguably the most complete player in the world. This past season he won the Selke Trophy for best defensive forward while posting 97 points in the process. The Russian superstar is a highly skilled athlete who matches his moves with his grit and isn't afraid to get his hands dirty to win the game.

Who do you think should be on the cover of NHL 10?