Jack Hughes, star player for the United States men’s ice hockey team, is eager to reclaim a piece of history following his game-winning goal that secured a 2-1 overtime victory over Canada at the 2026 Winter Olympics. The historic puck, which marked Team USA’s first Olympic gold medal in hockey since the iconic “Miracle on Ice” in 1980, is currently displayed at the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto.
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In an interview with ESPN, Hughes expressed frustration over the decision to keep the puck at the Hall of Fame. He stated, “I’m trying to get it. Like, that’s bulls*** that the Hockey Hall of Fame has it, in my opinion. Why would they have that puck?” The 24-year-old forward scored the decisive goal just 1:41 into overtime, shortly after Megan Keller of the U.S. women’s hockey team had achieved a similar feat against Canada three days prior.
Hughes believes both he and Keller deserve to keep their respective pucks from the Olympic triumphs. He remarked, “I don’t see why Megan Keller or I shouldn’t have those pucks.” Along with the golden goals, the Hockey Hall of Fame features an “Olympics ’26” exhibit that includes various significant memorabilia, including captain Hilary Knight’s jersey and a stick used by fellow U.S. player Brady Tkachuk.
Jamie Dinsmore, President and CEO of the Hockey Hall of Fame, explained the rationale behind their preservation efforts. In a statement, she noted that the items represent pivotal moments on an international platform, instilling a sense of national pride and showcasing hockey history at its zenith. “The Olympics ’26 display will help ensure that these unforgettable Olympic moments are preserved for our guests from around the world to experience,” she added.
Hughes, who plays for the New Jersey Devils during the NHL season, admitted he was unaware that the puck was no longer in his possession until it was mentioned in an interview by NHL player and coach Tony Granato. “I honestly don’t know where that puck went. I know who doesn’t have it is me. I sure as hell don’t have it,” Hughes said, highlighting his surprise regarding the puck’s fate.
Following Hughes’ comments, a representative from the International Ice Hockey Federation informed Sportico that the puck had been quickly secured for archival purposes. The spokesperson clarified that the decision to keep it at the Hockey Hall of Fame was made to guarantee its long-term preservation and historical recognition.
Hughes desires the puck not for personal gain but for his father, Jim Hughes, who he believes would treasure it immensely. “I wouldn’t even want it for myself. I’d want it for my dad. I know he’d just love having it,” Hughes explained. His father has a penchant for collecting memorabilia for Jack and his brothers—Quinn, who plays for the Minnesota Wild, and Luke, also with the New Jersey Devils.
Since returning from Italy with the gold medal, Hughes has experienced a whirlwind of media engagements and public appearances. He made an appearance on “Saturday Night Live” alongside teammates including Quinn and fellow Olympic champions, as well as a spot on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.” Additionally, he took part in a promotional event at a Raising Cane’s restaurant in Times Square alongside women’s hockey champion Caroline Harvey.
Despite the fame that has come with his Olympic success, Hughes insists that he remains unchanged. “I am who I am still; I’m just a hockey player,” he said with a laugh. “I’ve been lucky to do some pretty cool things since the gold medal, and I’ve done them all with Quinn, so it’s been really fun for us to just get to do all these things together that usually we don’t get to do.”
As discussions continue about the historical significance of the Olympic puck and its rightful ownership, fans of ice hockey await the outcome of Hughes’ wish to have a tangible piece of his and his country’s legacy. Whether it’s displayed in a hall of fame or cherished at home, the importance of such moments resonates far beyond the game itself, symbolising national pride and athletic achievement.