The United States men’s Olympic ice hockey team captured its first gold medal in 46 years thanks to an overtime game-winner from Jack Hughes of the New Jersey Devils.
As the celebration unfolded, the Americans made sure the moment carried deeper meaning.
Players skated with the jersey of Johnny Gaudreau, honoring their fallen teammate in an emotional tribute at center ice. Gaudreau’s jersey and locker have remained with the team throughout the tournament, a constant reminder of his presence.
The New Jersey native — along with his brother Matthew — was tragically killed by an alleged drunk driver near their South Jersey home. Gaudreau’s family, including his parents, wife, and children, were in attendance for the gold-medal game. His kids later joined Team USA on the ice for the championship photo, creating one of the most powerful images of the night.
Since that heartbreaking loss, USA Hockey has carried the memory of “Johnny Hockey” everywhere the program has gone — from the World Championships to the Four Nations Face-Off, and now all the way to the top of the podium at the 2026 Milan Winter Olympics.
For Team USA, this gold medal was about more than just ending a decades-long drought.
It was about honoring a brotherhood and ensuring that Johnny Gaudreau’s legacy remains part of every stride forward.
