for me, since my time for playing games is limited due to work and family, i can only devote my playing time with one sports game plus other (RPG or Sim in PC). So i pick NHL everytime as compared to basketball etc. I dont have a choice since hockey is my #1 sports so I always buy EA since the demice of 2k.
This time around, I'll take my stand. The only reason why I have NHL 13 is because my wife gave it to me as a gift. If minimal changes were implemented in NHL 14 in regards to gameplay, presentations etc. I'll stay away from NHL 14.