NEWARK, N.J. - Jack Hughes rejoined the New Jersey Devils on Wednesday night for their first NHL game since the Olympic break. His return followed a significant achievement: scoring the gold medal-winning goal in overtime against Canada at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Fans at Prudential Center gave Hughes a warm reception, erupting in cheers and "U-S-A" chants as replays of his gold medal-winning goal were shown on the Jumbotron. The pregame ceremony also honored other Devils Olympians.
Hughes, who recently celebrated with his team in Miami and visited the White House, expressed pride in representing the U.S. "We’re so proud to represent the U.S. and when you get the chance to go to the White House and meet the president, we’re proud to be Americans and that’s so patriotic," Hughes stated.
Despite a quick turnaround, Hughes is back on the ice, welcomed by enthusiastic fans in New Jersey eager to see their American hero play.