Jack Hughes Discusses Olympic Gold Medal Puck Situation

New Jersey Devils player and Olympic gold medalist Jack Hughes has clarified his remarks regarding the puck from the gold medal game, which led to a lot of buzz about its current home in the Toronto-based Hockey Hall of Fame.

In a recent chat with ESPN, Hughes shared his disappointment upon discovering that the puck is now showcased in a Canadian museum. He expressed confusion about how it ended up there, stating, “I’m trying to get it. Like, it’s a bull. In my opinion, I think the Hockey Hall of Fame has it. Why would they have that puck?”

He added that he doesn’t want to keep it for himself but rather pass it to his father, a passionate collector. Hughes mentioned, “I wouldn’t wish that on myself. I want to give it to my dad. I think he’ll love it and love owning it. Looking back on my career, I haven’t collected too many things for myself, but my dad is a monster collector for the three of us. I know he’ll put it in a special place.”

Fans noted the irony of the puck residing in Canada after Team USA bested Canada to clinch the top podium spot.

Hockey Hall of Fame Responds

After Hughes’ candid reaction, Philip Pritchard, a curator at the Hall, informed ESPN that the puck was never actually his. Following this exchange, Hughes softened his stance, acknowledging the Hall as “the most special place in hockey.” He said, “It’s obviously an honor to have the puck there. It’s like the most special place in hockey. Obviously, I think things have been taken away — you know, it’s crazy.”

He reflected, “That’s just what I felt and I didn’t know where the puck was. So that’s what it is.”

The U.S. claimed gold medals in men’s, women’s, and Paralympic sled hockey, defeating Canada in all finals, marking a historic achievement. Megan Keller also netted the women’s golden goal in overtime, with that puck similarly donated to the Hall of Fame.