Jack Hughes Cleared for Olympic Duty After Lower-Body Injury Scare for Team USA

Team USA Hockey received welcome news as Jack Hughes was cleared to compete at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina, despite concerns over a lower-body injury sustained during the New Jersey Devils' 3-2 overtime victory against the Nashville Predators on January 29. The 24-year-old center, considered one of Team USA's most talented forwards, represents a critical piece of the American roster as they chase their first Olympic hockey gold medal since the 1980 "Miracle on Ice" in Lake Placid.

Hughes' availability had been in serious doubt after he was injured during the first period of the Devils' late January matchup with Nashville. The lower-body ailment forced him to miss multiple games for New Jersey, raising concerns within USA Hockey circles about his readiness for the Olympic tournament. The injury came at an inopportune time, occurring just days before the NHL's Olympic break commenced on February 7, leaving little recovery time before Team USA's opening matches in Italy.

Despite the setback, Hughes has demonstrated remarkable resilience throughout the 2025-26 NHL season. The dynamic playmaker is maintaining a point-per-game pace with 11 goals and 30 points in just 29 games played, despite missing 18 games earlier in the campaign due to a freak finger injury that required surgical intervention. His ability to produce at an elite level despite the interrupted season underscores his importance to both the Devils and the U.S. Olympic squad.

Hughes was spotted wearing a protective brace during the Team USA Olympic roster announcement ceremony in late January, fueling speculation about the severity of his injury and his potential availability for Milano Cortina. However, medical evaluations conducted over the past week determined that the center would be fit to compete, providing Team USA head coach with a significant offensive weapon as the tournament approaches. Hughes' playmaking ability, speed, and hockey IQ make him an integral component of the American attack.

The Devils' star earned his Olympic selection based on his exceptional performances over the past several seasons, establishing himself as one of the NHL's premier centers. His selection to Team USA represents the culmination of years of development within the American hockey system and recognition of his status among the sport's elite players. Hughes expressed his honor at representing the United States on the Olympic stage, calling it a dream come true and a responsibility he takes seriously.

With Hughes now confirmed as available, Team USA enters the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics with their roster at full strength. The Americans face a challenging path to gold, competing against powerhouse hockey nations including Canada, Russia, Sweden, and Finland. Hughes will join fellow NHL stars on the U.S. roster as they seek to end a 46-year gold medal drought and bring Olympic glory back to American hockey. The NHL season will resume on February 25 following the conclusion of the Olympic tournament, with players returning to their respective teams for the final push toward the Stanley Cup playoffs.