Best NHL Game on Xbox 360: NHL 09 vs Later Entries — Which to Buy

There is only one NHL 09 on Xbox 360. If you're asking for the best NHL game on the platform, later entries improved significantly.

NHL 09 (2008): First with "Be a Pro" (single-player career), skill stick 2.0. Good but dated physics.
NHL 10 (2009): Board play, first-person fighting, improved skating physics. Many consider this the peak of the "old engine" era.
NHL 11 (2010): Real-time physics (contact, puck), "Be a Pro" overhaul, HUT (Hockey Ultimate Team) debut. Best balance of sim + fun.
NHL 12 (2011): Full contact physics, goalie improvements, Winter Classic. Slightly buggy.
NHL 13 (2012): True Performance Skating (momentum-based), GM Connected (30-user leagues), HUT seasons. Last on "old" engine.
NHL 14 (2013): NHL 94 Anniversary Mode, fight engine, improved checking. Last 360 NHL before Ignite engine (Xbox One).
NHL 15 (2014): 360 version = "Legacy Edition" (roster update only, NHL 14 engine). Avoid.

Best Overall: NHL 13 or NHL 14 — modern skating, deep modes, active sliders community.
Best "Classic Feel": NHL 11 — physics breakthrough, still plays great.
For Be a Pro: NHL 11 or 13.

All are cheap used ($5–15). Pop in, update rosters via community sliders (Operation Sports), enjoy.

Xbox 360