Team USA is advancing to the semifinals, and fans in Michigan have plenty to cheer about. In a thrilling quarterfinal matchup, the United States edged out Sweden 2-1, with key contributions from two players with Michigan connections. Dylan Larkin opened the scoring for Team USA in the second period, while Quinn Hughes delivered the game-winner in overtime, skating past Sweden's defense to unleash a stunning shot that left goaltender Jacob Markstrom with no chance.
For Detroit Red Wings enthusiasts, this game was a treat. Larkin found the back of the net, and Lucas Raymond set up Mika Zibanejad's critical tying goal late in the third period.
Meanwhile, Hughes, a former Michigan Wolverine, sealed the victory. Hughes, who was previously linked to the Red Wings during trade talks before being moved to the Minnesota Wild, is set to become a free agent in the summer of 2027.
This leaves a window open for teams like the Red Wings to potentially pursue him again.
After the game, Hughes spoke highly of Larkin in an interview with NHL Network's Jackie Redmond, referring to him as a mentor and sharing the invaluable advice he's received from the Red Wings captain.
Quinn Hughes Opens Up About Mentorship with Dylan Larkin
“Larks has been like a big brother to me… I think I met him at a frat party when I was a freshman. But he’s awesome… and I just follow from what a big heart Larks has. He’s always told me to pay it forward and I think that’s a great message," Hughes shared.
The bond between Larkin and the Hughes family runs deep. As Redmond noted, they often skate together during the NHL offseason.
Both Larkin and Hughes played for the University of Michigan and were part of the USA Hockey National Development Program in Plymouth, Michigan. Hughes' admiration for Larkin was evident after their combined efforts led to Team USA's first Olympic hockey victory over Sweden since 1960.
Before Hughes' trade to the Wild, there was buzz about his interest in joining the Red Wings. Sportsnet NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reported that Hughes was keen on a move to Detroit. However, Red Wings General Manager Steve Yzerman hesitated to meet the high trade demands without a contract extension in place, leading to Hughes' eventual trade to Minnesota.
Hughes cannot sign a contract extension until July 1 and has stated his focus remains on the short term with the Wild. If he enters free agency in 2027 without a new deal, he will undoubtedly be one of the most coveted players, alongside stars like Nikita Kucherov and Sidney Crosby.
Should Hughes become available, Yzerman and the Red Wings will need to be ready to make their move.