Connor Hellebuyck has been named an American hero after leading Team USA to its first Olympic gold medal in men's hockey since 1980. Hellebuyck made 41 saves in the gold medal game, securing the historic victory.
While Hellebuyck was a fourth-round pick by the Winnipeg Jets in 2012, he developed into a standout college player and later earned NHL accolades, including multiple Vezina Trophy wins as the league's top goaltender and the Hart Memorial Trophy for MVP.
Despite facing challenges in past NHL playoffs, Hellebuyck's Olympic performance was exceptional. He stopped 95.6% of shots on goal throughout the tournament, allowing more than one goal only once.
President Donald Trump recognized Hellebuyck's heroic efforts and announced he will receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom.