Jack Hughes delivered a historic moment for Team USA by scoring the gold medal-winning goal in overtime against Canada at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. The thrilling victory took place on Sunday at the Santagiulia Arena in Milan, ending a 46-year drought since the United States last captured men’s Olympic hockey gold.
The 24-year-old center, playing for the New Jersey Devils in the NHL, scored at 1:41 into the overtime period, completing a 2-1 upset over the favored Canadian squad. His brother Luke Hughes, a defenseman for the Devils, was overcome with emotion watching the decisive play unfold from the team lounge in Newark, New Jersey.
Hughes Family Rejoices Over Historic Achievement
Luke Hughes, 22, expressed his disbelief and pride following the dramatic finish.
“I was jumping up and down and everyone was celebrating. I’m just so happy and proud of those guys. It’s such a great accomplishment. I think we’re all still in shock that they won it in that fashion,”
Luke said after practice on Sunday, speaking to Amanda Stein of the Devils’ team website.
The Hughes brothers have become synonymous with American hockey excellence throughout the tournament. Jack tied with Auston Matthews as the top scoring American forward, recording seven points—including four goals and three assists—in six games despite playing in a bottom-six role. Meanwhile, their older brother Quinn Hughes led the U.S. team overall with eight points, consisting of one goal and seven assists.
Luke further reflected on the unique emotions surrounding the victory.
“Everyone was jumping up and down, really,”
he said.
“The only reason the [Canada-born players] were happy was because it was Jack. It’s a weird thing when we’re all watching the game; they’re rooting for Canada, the American guys for the U.S. Then your teammate scores to win it. It’s just such a proud moment for me watching both my brothers win a gold medal and my mom (Ellen Hughes) won a gold medal with the women’s Olympic team (as a player development consultant), so we just kind of cleaned up.”
He added,
“That’s a huge accomplishment for our family, but more importantly, for the country. Bringing home the (men’s) gold for the first time in 46 years is such an honor. I’m really happy for all [25] of those players on that team.”
Teammates and Coaches Praise Jack Hughes’ Clutch Performance
Fellow Devils forward Jesper Bratt, who competed for Sweden at the Games, described the moment as unforgettable.
“We were very excited for Jack … what an amazing moment,”
Bratt said.
“I think every player growing up has sometime dreamed about scoring an OT goal in the Olympics, and now Jack has done that. It was really special to watch. I can’t imagine the feeling he’s having right now … Wow, what a moment.”
Defenseman Brett Pesce, originally from Tarrytown, New York, was beside Hughes as the winning goal was scored.
“We gave each other a big hug, and it was special to see his reaction of his brother scoring,”
Pesce recalled.
“We were all glued to the screen … our hearts were pumping. We kept talking about it like we were out there. It was crazy. But to see ‘Jacko’ do that, it’s special and I couldn’t be happier for him. He’s a USA hockey legend for life now, right?”
Pesce continued,
“Everyone’s going to remember that, have videos of his goal. He works so hard and cares so much about the game of hockey, and USA Hockey. It’s just awesome for that family and I’m just excited to congratulate him in person.”
Canada-born New Jersey Devils coach Sheldon Keefe acknowledged the significance of the goal despite the disappointing result for his home country. “An exceptional goal, exceptional moment,” Keefe stated.
“So happy for Jack. Once you get to the 3-on-3 you know that it’s going to be tailor-made for him to have a big moment like that. As a Canadian, if you’re going to lose, that’s how you want it to be, so really happy for Jack, his family and to be here with Luke as well … all that’s happening is pretty great.”
Defying Adversity on the Ice
The victory was hard-fought, as Jack Hughes endured physical challenges during the final game. He lost a few teeth after taking a high stick from Canada’s Sam Bennett late in the third period. The iconic image of Hughes smiling widely with an American flag draped over his shoulders, missing some front teeth, has quickly become a symbol of resilience and triumph shared across social media platforms.
Luke offered a lighthearted yet heartfelt account of his brother’s condition after the game.
“I couldn’t be more proud of my brothers and my family,”
he said.
“I know they’re going to be celebrating. I just got off the phone with Quinn and Jack, and they’re pretty fired up. Jack’s definitely not as pretty, or as good-looking as he was before, but I think he’ll take that every day of the week.”
Significance and What Lies Ahead for USA Hockey
This gold medal marks a monumental milestone for USA Hockey, echoing the spirit of the 1980 “Miracle on Ice” team that etched its legacy into Olympic history. The win not only represents supreme achievement at the Olympic level but also demonstrates the rising stature of American hockey on the international stage.
With Jack Hughes now immortalized as one of the great clutch players in Olympic history, the confidence in Team USA’s prospects is elevated. The Hughes brothers’ continued influence in the NHL and international competitions promises to inspire future generations of American players.
The success of the 2026 men’s team may help fuel further growth and investment in USA Hockey, potentially leading to increased competitiveness at major tournaments and the nurturing of new talent to build on this historic achievement.
