Jack Hughes Scores Golden Goal for Team USA at Olympics

The 24-year-old center's overtime winner against Canada gave the U.S. its first Olympic gold since 1980.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Jack Hughes, the 24-year-old center for the New Jersey Devils, scored the game-winning goal in overtime to defeat Canada and give the United States its first Olympic gold medal in men's hockey since the 'Miracle on Ice' in 1980. Hughes' heroics, which came shortly after he took a high stick to the face, have made him an American sports icon.

Why it matters

Hughes' Olympic triumph caps off a remarkable rise for the young hockey star, who was touted as a top prospect from a young age and has already established himself as one of the NHL's brightest young talents. His clutch performance on the global stage has cemented his status as a national hero and will likely boost his profile and popularity even further.

The details

Hughes, a native of Orlando, Florida who grew up in Toronto before moving to Michigan, was just 17 years old when he played for the U.S. World Junior Championship team in 2019 after a standout career with the National Team Development Program (NTDP). He was selected 1st overall by the New Jersey Devils in the 2019 NHL Draft and has since made two All-Star teams while racking up 135 goals and 200 assists in 287 career games. Despite missing time earlier this season due to a 'freak accident' at a Chicago steakhouse, Hughes has continued to establish himself as one of the league's elite young players.

  • Hughes scored the game-winning goal in overtime on Sunday, February 19, 2026 to defeat Canada.
  • Hughes played for the U.S. World Junior Championship team in 2019 at the age of 17.

The players

Jack Hughes

A 24-year-old center for the New Jersey Devils who scored the game-winning goal in overtime to give the United States its first Olympic gold medal in men's hockey since 1980.

Jordan Binnington

The goaltender for the Canadian men's hockey team who was unable to stop Hughes' game-winning shot in overtime.

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What they’re saying

“That goal will go down in American sports history. Jack Hughes is a true hero.”

— Robert Jenkins, Sports Analyst (wxbc1043.com)

What’s next

Hughes is expected to be a key part of the U.S. men's hockey team's efforts to defend their Olympic gold medal at the 2030 Winter Games.

The takeaway

Jack Hughes' heroics in leading Team USA to Olympic gold have cemented his status as one of the brightest young stars in hockey and a true American sports icon. His perseverance and clutch performance on the global stage will inspire a new generation of hockey players in the United States.