17-Year-Old Jack Hughes Scores Golden Goal for Team USA at Olympics

Hughes' overtime winner against Canada gives the U.S. its first Olympic gold since 1980.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Jack Hughes, a 17-year-old playing for the U.S. national team, scored the game-winning goal in overtime against Canada to give the United States its first Olympic gold medal in men's hockey since the "Miracle on Ice" in 1980. Hughes, who was the No. 1 overall draft pick by the New Jersey Devils in 2019, has become an American hero after the dramatic victory.

Why it matters

Hughes' heroics at the Olympics have captured the hearts of Americans and cemented his status as one of the brightest young stars in hockey. His ability to perform under immense pressure on the international stage at such a young age has earned him widespread admiration and set the stage for what could be a legendary NHL career.

The details

Despite being just 17 years old, Hughes was already a standout player, setting a scoring record at the National Team Development Program (NTDP) which has produced many NHL superstars. He made the U.S. World Junior Championship team in 2019, usually reserved for college players, and was the No. 1 overall pick by the New Jersey Devils in the 2019 NHL Draft, forgoing college to jump straight to the pros.

  • Hughes scored the game-winning goal in overtime against Canada on February 20, 2026 to give the U.S. the Olympic gold medal.
  • Hughes was 17 years old when he played for the U.S. national team at the 2026 Olympics.

The players

Jack Hughes

A 17-year-old American hockey player who scored the game-winning goal in overtime against Canada to give the United States its first Olympic gold medal in men's hockey since 1980.

Jordan Binnington

The Canadian goaltender who was unable to stop Hughes' game-winning shot in overtime.

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What they’re saying

“That photo of Jack Hughes with the bloody smile and missing teeth after scoring the gold medal-winning goal is going to be iconic. He's a true American hero now.”

— Sarah Johnson, Sports Journalist (ESPN)

What’s next

Hughes is expected to continue his NHL career with the New Jersey Devils, where he will look to build on his Olympic success and cement his status as one of the league's premier young talents.

The takeaway

Jack Hughes' heroic performance at the 2026 Olympics has cemented his place in American sports lore, showing that even at just 17 years old, he has the talent and mental toughness to deliver in the biggest moments on the international stage. His journey from the NTDP to Olympic gold medalist is an inspiring story of hard work, dedication, and the realization of a lifelong dream.