Jack Hughes, Connor Hellebuyck lift U.S. to Olympic hockey gold - ESPN

ESPN

by Emily Kaplan

February 22, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The United States secured a historic victory at the Olympic Games as Jack Hughes scored the golden goal in sudden-death overtime, leading Team USA to a thrilling 2-1 win over Canada in men's hockey. This marked the first U.S. gold medal in men's ice hockey since the "Miracle on Ice" in 1980. Hughes, who also had a chipped tooth during the game, capitalized on a perfectly executed play with a cross-ice pass from Zach Werenski less than two minutes into the 3-on-3 overtime period. Meanwhile, U.S. goaltender Connor Hellebuyck was the standout performer, making an impressive 41 saves to secure the victory and redemption after a challenging 2025 playoffs with the Winnipeg Jets. The game was filled with intense moments, including Hellebuyck's crucial stops against Canada's star players like Connor McDavid and Devon Toews. Team USA's penalty-killing unit also shone, going a perfect 18-for-18 throughout the tournament, which proved pivotal in keeping the game tied until overtime. Hughes' resilience was evident after he lost a tooth during a high-sticking penalty but remained focused, contributing to the historic win. The victory was particularly meaningful for the U.S., as it followed Canada's loss in women's hockey earlier in the week, marking a clean sweep for American teams. The triumph was a testament to the team's determination and skill, with players like Matt Boldy and Charlie McAvoy expressing overwhelming joy after the final buzzer. Hellebuyck's performance was hailed as one of the greatest in Olympic history, solidifying his status as a key player for Team USA. The win not only brought pride to the nation but also showcased the depth and talent of American hockey players on the global stage. For sports fans, this victory is a reminder

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Originally published on ESPN on 2/22/2026