Hughes Brothers Lead Team USA to Olympic Glory, Defend Teammate
Milan, Italy – February 13, 2026 – Brothers Jack and Quinn Hughes played pivotal roles in Team USA’s stunning victory at the Olympic Winter Games, culminating in a gold medal win. Their on-ice success was matched by a powerful display of team loyalty, as they publicly defended teammate Auston Matthews from unfair media questioning.
Olympic Debut and Early Success
The Olympic dream became a reality for the Hughes family on Thursday, February 13th, as Jack and Quinn Hughes made their Olympic debut together for Team USA. Both players contributed significantly to a dominant 5-1 win against Team Latvia, each recording two assists in the opening game. Their mother, Ellen Weinberg-Hughes, is also contributing to the American effort as a player development consultant for the women’s team.
The brothers are scheduled to continue their Olympic journey on Saturday, facing Team Denmark.
A Family Affair
The Hughes family’s presence at the Olympics extends beyond Jack and Quinn. Their brother, Luke, plays in the NFL, and their father, Jim Hughes, has a background in hockey player development. This makes them the first American family to have three siblings drafted in the first round of the NHL draft.
The best part for me is being here with Quinn,Jack said.We’re lucky that we receive to share our first Olympics with our mom, too. Who gets to say that? It’s pretty special.
Standing Up for a Teammate
Following the gold medal victory, Jack and Quinn Hughes demonstrated exceptional character during a post-game press conference. When a reporter steered the conversation towards Auston Matthews’s struggles with his NHL team, the Toronto Maple Leafs, the Hughes brothers swiftly intervened to defend their captain.
I’m trying to live in the moment, man. Arrive on.Matthews said, expressing his desire to focus on the Olympic triumph.
Jack Hughes immediately responded, stating, It doesn’t matter what anyone says now, Auston Matthews is a winner. Auston Matthews is an Olympic gold medalist. He’s a winner.
Quinn Hughes added, Yeah, that’s what the media in Toronto should be talking about, Auston Matthews led us to a championship.
Matthews’ Accomplishments
Auston Matthews, 28, boasts an impressive career record with 427 goals and 348 assists in 680 games. He has earned a Calder Trophy, three Rocket Richard Awards, and one Hart Trophy, positioning him for a potentially historic career with over 700 goals and 1200 points.