Experience the critically acclaimed EA SPORTS NHL franchise with the NHL 09, now available on the PlayStation Network, with the Xbox Live demo to follow in early September.

Building off seven 'Sports Game of the Year Awards' last year, NHL 09 provides gamers with an answer to the offensive innovation of years past with the introduction of Defensive Skill Stick. Players can now use an improved poke check, sweep their stick 360 degrees to block passing lanes, or lift an opponent's stick when playing defense.

The new Be A Pro career mode will put you in the skates of an up and coming superstar. Start in the AHL and work your way up to the NHL, with the ultimate goal of becoming an NHL legend.

The new Performance Tracker will rate your play in over 60 categories so you will know exactly what parts of your game you need to improve.

NHL 09 will also introduce the evolution of online team play - the EA SPORTS Hockey League. Take your created player online and join a team with friends, or scout for players.

NHL 09 ships to retailers on September 9 on Xbox 360 and the PlayStation 3 computer entertainment system.