USA’s Jack Hughes backtracks amid Olympics puck controversy
Jack Hughes has stepped back from his strong stance in the Olympic puck controversy, softening his tone after days of debate. The USA forward had earlier questioned why his “Golden Goal” puck sat in the Hockey Hall of Fame instead of with him. Hughes’ overtime winner against Canada secured a historic gold medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics .
It ended Team USA ‘s long drought since 1980. Speaking recently, the NHL star struck a calmer note and said he feels honored that the puck is displayed at hockey’s most respected venue. MORE: Connor McDavid admits ‘it sucks’ to lose to Team USA in Olympics final “Obviously honored that the puck’s there,” Hughes said.
“It’s like the most special place in hockey. So yeah, I’m honored that it’s there. Obviously, I think things were taken crazy [this week].
That’s just the way I felt. ” Clearly, his latest comments suggest a shift from frustration to acceptance. The issue began after Hughes openly criticized the Hall’s decision.
He argued that both he and the USA Women’s hockey team’s Megan Keller deserved to keep their game-winning pucks. “I don’t see why Megan Keller or I shouldn’t have those pucks,” Hughes said earlier. The Hall’s curator has also responded , stating the puck never belonged to Hughes and was properly donated.