Bummed that EA didn't release a demo for NHL 09 on LIVE? Turn that frown upside down! 2K Sports has announced that a free demo of NHL 2K9 is now available for download on Xbox LIVE Marketplace for the Xbox 360.

The demo will provide fans an early chance to experience the new simplified controls and relive the excitement of this past season’s thrilling Stanley Cup Final for a brief three minute period as either the Pittsburgh Penguins or Detroit Red Wings at Joe Louis Arena in Detroit.

NHL 2K9, developed by Visual Concepts, brings the fun back to hockey video games with all-new features including user-friendly controls, an exciting Zamboni mini-game, playoff beards, a revamped fighting engine and much more exciting action than ever before.

Complete with fresh new in-game commentary, improved franchise mode, and upgraded online features, NHL 2K9 will be available on September 9th for Xbox 360, the Nintendo Wii, PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 2.