Jack Hughes scored the overtime winner, securing the United States' first men's Olympic ice hockey gold medal since 1980. Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck was instrumental, making 40 saves to keep Canada at bay.
Hughes lauded Hellebuyck's performance, calling him the team's best player. "That's just a ballsy, gutsy win. That's American hockey right there," Hughes stated.
Teammate Matthew Tkachuk echoed the sentiment, crediting Hellebuyck with the victory. "It was an all-time performance from a superstar at his position. If we don't have him, we don't win."
Hellebuyck, who underwent knee surgery in November, silenced critics with his performance in the Olympics. "Those critics, they can keep writing, but they don't understand goaltending. They definitely don't understand my game," he said. He cited an incredible stick save in the final period as a pivotal moment.
Hughes, who lost teeth earlier in the game, also overcame prior injuries. His brother and teammate Quinn Hughes noted Jack's unwavering composure. "He wants to be that guy. And I felt that way about Jack, just a special guy, happy it happened to him, and just my best friend, but also a special player."