Jack Hughes' Golden Goal Lifts Team USA to Olympic Glory

The 23-year-old center's overtime winner against Canada caps a gritty, record-breaking career for the New Jersey Devils star.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Jack Hughes, the 23-year-old center for the New Jersey Devils, scored the game-winning goal in overtime to give Team USA its first Olympic gold medal in men's hockey since 1980. Hughes' bloody, toothless celebration after the goal has become an iconic image, capturing the grit and determination that has defined his hockey career from a young age.

Why it matters

Hughes' heroics on the international stage cement his status as one of the brightest young stars in the NHL. His journey from a teenage prodigy to Olympic champion has captivated American hockey fans and solidified his place as a beloved figure in U.S. sports.

The details

Hughes was just 17 years old when he played for the U.S. World Junior Championship team in 2019, a squad typically made up of college stars. He went on to set a scoring record at the National Team Development Program, which has produced numerous NHL All-Stars and Hall of Famers. Hughes was then selected first overall by the New Jersey Devils in the 2019 NHL Draft, forgoing college to jump straight to the pros. Despite some injury setbacks, he has blossomed into a two-time All-Star and one of the league's most dynamic young talents.

  • Hughes scored the game-winning goal in overtime against Canada on February 19, 2026.
  • He was just 17 years old when he played for the U.S. World Junior Championship team in 2019.
  • Hughes was selected first overall by the New Jersey Devils in the 2019 NHL Draft.

The players

Jack Hughes

A 23-year-old center for the New Jersey Devils who scored the game-winning goal in overtime to give Team USA the Olympic gold medal in men's hockey.

Quinn Hughes

Jack Hughes' older brother, who also plays for the U.S. national team and scored an overtime goal against Sweden to help the team reach the semifinals.

Luke Hughes

Jack Hughes' younger brother, who is also on the Devils roster and part of the family's hockey legacy.

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What’s next

With the Olympics behind him, Jack Hughes will return to the New Jersey Devils as they push for a deep playoff run. His performance in Beijing has only heightened expectations for the young star, who will look to lead his NHL team to the same heights he reached with Team USA.

The takeaway

Jack Hughes' heroic golden goal for Team USA has cemented his status as one of the brightest young stars in hockey. His journey from teenage prodigy to Olympic champion has captivated American sports fans and solidified his place as a beloved figure in U.S. sports.