Jack Hughes Scores OT Gold for USA After Losing Teeth in Olympic Final
Jack Hughes delivered one of the most iconic moments in Olympic hockey history, scoring 1:41 into overtime to lift Team USA to a dramatic 2-1 victory over Canada in the gold medal game at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026.
Despite losing teeth earlier in the game after taking a high stick, Hughes returned to the ice and etched his name into American hockey folklore with the championship-winning goal.
Jack Hughes’ Golden Moment
With the game tied 1-1 and tension at its peak, Hughes found space during 3-on-3 overtime and buried a cross-ice pass from Zach Werenski past Canada goaltender Jordan Binnington. The puck slid through the five-hole, sparking instant celebration.
The goal sealed Team USA’s first Olympic men’s hockey gold medal since the legendary 1980 squad defeated the Soviet Union in Lake Placid. The victory fittingly came on the 46th anniversary of that historic triumph.
“I can’t even believe this,” Hughes said after the game, still smiling despite missing a few teeth. “We wanted to go through Canada and beat them. It’s an unbelievable win for the Americans.”
Goaltending Heroics
While Hughes scored the winner, U.S. goalie Connor Hellebuyck kept the Americans alive throughout the game.
Canada outshot the United States 42-28 and controlled much of the play. Hellebuyck delivered a masterclass performance, denying stars like Connor McDavid and Macklin Celebrini on key chances.
Team USA’s penalty kill was flawless, finishing 18-for-18 in the tournament, including a crucial five-on-three sequence in the gold medal game.
Grit and Determination
Earlier in the contest, Hughes had two teeth knocked out after a high stick from Canadian forward Sam Bennett. After briefly leaving the ice, he returned almost immediately — setting the stage for his unforgettable overtime winner.
Pandemonium erupted as teammates flooded the ice, equipment flew into the air, and chants of “USA, USA” echoed around the arena.
Defenseman Charlie McAvoy described the moment as “pure joy,” while forward Brock Nelson called it a memory that young fans will replay for years.
Ending the Gold Drought
The United States captured its third Olympic gold medal in men’s hockey and ended a 46-year wait since the “Miracle on Ice.”
Though not the same underdog story as 1980, this victory — dubbed by some as the “Marvel in Milan” — will stand as one of the greatest moments in American hockey history.
For Jack Hughes, the image of a toothless smile and raised arms in overtime will forever symbolize grit, resilience, and Olympic glory.
FAQs
Jack Hughes scored the overtime winner 1:41 into sudden death against Canada.
He was hit with a high stick earlier in the game but returned to play shortly after.
Team USA defeated Canada 2-1 in overtime.
Disclaimer:
The content shared by Meyka AI PTY LTD is solely for research and informational purposes. Meyka is not a financial advisory service, and the information provided should not be considered investment or trading advice.
