MILAN — Jack Hughes may have lost some teeth along the way, but his hockey smile is even bigger with a gold medal around his neck.
For the first time since the 1980 “Miracle on Ice,” the United States won an Olympic gold medal in men’s hockey as Hughes scored the golden goal in 3-on-3 overtime for a 2-1 win against rival Canada on Sunday.
U.S. goalie Connor Hellebuyck, meanwhile, was sensational, stopping 41 shots to keep the game tied heading into OT.
Hughes’ goal, less than two minutes into the extra period, was assisted by Zach Werenski, who wrestled the puck away from Canada’s Nathan MacKinnon and sent a cross-ice feed to an open Hughes.
“He’s a freaking gamer. He’s always been a gamer,” Jack’s brother, U.S. defenseman Quinn Hughes, said. “Just mentally tough, been through a lot, loves the game. American hero.”
