Team USA's Quinn Hughes Praises 'Mentor' Dylan Larkin at Olympics

The Minnesota Wild star opened up about his close relationship with the Detroit Red Wings captain.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Team USA hockey star Quinn Hughes spoke highly of his longtime friend and mentor, Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin, after their overtime win against Sweden at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Hughes and Larkin played together on the US National Team Development Program in Plymouth, Michigan, before turning pro, and Hughes credits Larkin for having a major positive influence on his career.

Why it matters

The close relationship between Hughes and Larkin, two of the NHL's top young stars, is an inspiring story of mentorship and camaraderie in professional sports. Their bond could help lead Team USA to a gold medal in the upcoming Olympic semifinal against Slovakia.

The details

Hughes was reunited with Larkin at the 2026 Winter Olympics, and he spoke glowingly about the impact his friend has had on him. 'Larks has been like a big brother to me... He's always told me to pay it forward and I think that's a great message,' Hughes said after the win over Sweden. The two players first met at a college party when Hughes was a freshman, and their friendship has only grown stronger over the years.

  • The 2026 Winter Olympics are nearing a thrilling conclusion.
  • Team USA won a classic against Sweden in overtime on February 19, 2026.
  • Team USA is set to take on Slovakia in the semifinals on February 24, 2026.

The players

Quinn Hughes

A superstar defenseman for the Minnesota Wild and a key member of Team USA's Olympic hockey team.

Dylan Larkin

The captain of the Detroit Red Wings and a longtime friend and mentor to Quinn Hughes, dating back to their time playing together on the US National Team Development Program.

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What they’re saying

“'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.'”

— Quinn Hughes (NHL Network)

What’s next

Team USA is set to take on Slovakia in the Olympic hockey semifinals on Friday, February 24, 2026, with a chance to advance to the gold medal game.

The takeaway

The close friendship and mentorship between Quinn Hughes and Dylan Larkin is an inspiring example of the positive impact veteran players can have on younger stars in professional sports. Their bond could help lead Team USA to Olympic glory in the coming days.