As the 2026 Winter Olympics approach the decisive stages, Team USA’s hockey squad secured a dramatic overtime victory against Sweden, with Quinn Hughes delivering the game-winning goal. Hughes’s performance sent the Americans to the semifinals against Slovakia, where anticipation is high. Ahead of this critical matchup, Hughes reflected on the influence of Dylan Larkin, a key mentor throughout his development.
Shared History Between Hughes and Larkin Shapes Their Olympic Journey
Quinn Hughes reunited with Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin at the Olympic Games, rekindling a relationship formed years earlier under the US National Team Development Program in Plymouth, Michigan. Their early time as teammates in this program laid the foundation for Hughes’s respect and admiration for Larkin’s leadership and character.
Hughes Describes Larkin as a Brother and Source of Inspiration
Speaking after Team USA’s win against Sweden, Hughes expressed his deep appreciation for Larkin’s guidance.
“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,”
Hughes shared via NHL Network reporter Jackie Redmond.
Trade Speculations and Olympic Impact
During the current NHL season, Hughes was reportedly linked to a potential move to the Detroit Red Wings, though the team ultimately did not complete the trade. Instead, the Minnesota Wild acquired Hughes from the Vancouver Canucks in exchange for Marco Rossi, Zeev Buium, Liam Ohgren, and a first-round draft pick. Despite this, the connection between Larkin and Hughes remains strong, demonstrated by their on-ice chemistry at the Olympics.
Looking Ahead: Team USA’s Road to Gold
With Hughes and Larkin playing prominent roles, Team USA is poised for a challenging semifinal showdown against Slovakia scheduled for Friday afternoon. Their combined experience and mentorship could be key factors as the team aims to secure a spot in the Olympic finals and compete for gold. The influence of Dylan Larkin on Quinn Hughes highlights the importance of leadership and camaraderie in high-pressure international competition.
Quinn Hughes on his “mentor” Dylan Larkin:
“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… pic.twitter.com/R3yAG1BZCa— Jackie Redmond (@Jackie_Redmond) February 19, 2026
