Olympic Hero Jack Hughes Receives Standing Ovation in Pittsburgh

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Jack Hughes, the New Jersey Devils star, received a standing ovation from the usually hostile Pittsburgh Penguins crowd during player introductions on Thursday. This comes just a day after Hughes was celebrated as a hero in New Jersey following his gold medal-winning goal against Canada at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Despite the Penguins going on to win the game 4-1, Hughes picked up an assist and two shots on goal, and is expected to continue receiving a warm reception from fans for the rest of the NHL season, except when the Devils travel to Canada.

Why it matters

Hughes' Olympic heroics have made him a national celebrity, and the warm reception he received from the rival Penguins crowd highlights how his achievement has transcended team allegiances. This level of adoration is rare for an opposing player, and speaks to the impact Hughes has had on the sport of hockey in the United States.

The details

One day after receiving a hero's welcome at the Prudential Center in New Jersey, Hughes got a standing ovation from the Pittsburgh crowd during player introductions on Thursday. The former first overall NHL draft pick has had an up-and-down career due to injuries, but his gold medal-winning goal against Canada in the 2026 Olympics has cemented his status as a national hero. Hughes also visited the White House with his teammates and addressed the team during the State of the Union address.

• On Sunday, Hughes scored the decisive goal in overtime of the gold medal game against Canada at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
• On Thursday, Hughes received a standing ovation from the Pittsburgh Penguins crowd during player introductions.

What’s next

Hughes and the Devils will face the Montreal Canadiens on April 5, which is expected to be the only remaining game on their schedule where he does not receive a warm reception from the crowd.