Jack Hughes just added another accolade to his impressive resume, scoring the game-winning goal in overtime to secure a 2-1 victory for Team USA in the Olympic gold medal game in Milan, Italy. The celebration was electric as Hughes tossed his helmet aside, surrounded by jubilant teammates. In the stands, his parents, Jim and Ellen Hughes, watched with pride as their son became the hero of the day.
Hughes, a star forward for the New Jersey Devils, started the game on Team USA’s third line alongside Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin and Buffalo Sabres' Tage Thompson. He also played a key role on the second power play unit, orchestrated by Columbus Blue Jackets' Zach Werenski.
Minnesota Wild's Matt Boldy got things rolling for Team USA, scoring a beautiful goal just six minutes into the first period, assisted by Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews and Quinn Hughes. This marked the start of an intense battle, with shots evenly matched at eight apiece by the end of the first period.
Quinn Hughes made history during the tournament, becoming the first American player to record a six-game point streak in an Olympics featuring NHL players. His seventh assist set a new record for the most assists by an American in a single Olympic tournament with NHL players.
Midway through the second period, Team USA faced a daunting 5-on-3 penalty kill. With Jake Guentzel and Charlie McAvoy in the box, the Americans held firm, maintaining their 1-0 lead. However, with just under two minutes left in the period, Canadian defenseman Cale Makar tied the game, assisted by his Colorado Avalanche teammate Devon Toews.
As the third period unfolded, tensions ran high. Canadian forward Sam Bennett was penalized for high-sticking Jack Hughes, giving the USA a four-minute power play.
Despite the opportunity, they couldn't capitalize, and with time winding down, Jack Hughes himself was sent to the box for high-sticking. The USA successfully killed off the penalty, setting the stage for a thrilling overtime.
In the 3-on-3 sudden death overtime, it was Jack Hughes who delivered the golden moment, scoring the decisive goal. USA goaltender Connor Hellebuyck was a wall in net, stopping 41 of 42 shots.
Reflecting on the victory, Hughes expressed his pride and love for his country and teammates, saying, "This is all about our country right now. I love the USA.
I love my teammates. It's unbelievable.
The USA Hockey Brotherhood is so strong. I'm so proud to be American today."
For more on Jack Hughes and the New Jersey Devils, stay tuned to our coverage for exclusive interviews and in-depth analysis. And if you're hungry for more hockey insights, consider subscribing to The Hockey News for the latest updates and expert breakdowns.