The celebration of Olympic gold can leave lasting memories, and sometimes a few battle scars.
Jack Hughes, star center for the New Jersey Devils and a hero for the United States men’s national ice hockey team at the recent Winter Olympics, has been sporting a noticeable toothless smile since the tournament in Milan.
Now, just weeks after winning gold, Hughes says he finally plans to fix the missing teeth before the National Hockey League playoffs begin.
What did Jack Hughes say about fixing his teeth?
Hughes spoke to reporters during a promotional stop at a Raising Cane’s location in Times Square, where he appeared alongside fellow Olympic champion Caroline Harvey. The two athletes were celebrating Team USA‘s success at the Winter Games while also reflecting on the future of hockey in the United States.
When asked about the missing teeth – a common badge of honor in hockey – Hughes joked that dentists across the country have already tried to help.
“Yeah, the amount of dentists that have reached out, man, it’s too many,” Hughes said. “But I’m going to get them fixed, hopefully this week.”
The 24-year-old also admitted that the iconic hockey look might be part of his charm right now.
“I think people will be pissed if I do get them fixed.”
With the NHL postseason approaching, however, the Devils star indicated that restoring his smile is a priority before the games begin.
Hughes and Harvey‘s appearance came just weeks after a memorable Olympic tournament in which the United States captured gold medals in both men’s and women’s hockey – a rare and historic achievement for the country.
Olympic success fuels momentum for U.S. hockey
Harvey, a standout defender for the Wisconsin Badgers women’s ice hockey program, said the tournament created major momentum for the sport, particularly for women’s hockey in the U.S.
“It’s a super exciting time,” Harvey said. “I think, obviously, the Olympics brought a lot of attention around that and a lot of eyeballs, especially women’s hockey, just women and just hockey in general.”
She also reflected on the personal significance of competing during such a pivotal moment for the sport.
“It’s super special to be a part of it at this time and going into the league next chapter ahead. But yeah, I’m just enjoying the ride and just trying to keep growing that.”
Hughes also used the opportunity to offer advice for young athletes hoping to pursue professional sports careers. According to the Devils center, the most important ingredient for long-term success is simple: enjoy the game.
“The thing about sports is, at least when we were kids… it’s all about having fun, enjoying it,” Hughes remarked.
“I know it’s so clich, but when you’re eight years old, it’s all about enjoying the sport, having fun, loving it, having a passion. Not like, ‘How am I going to make the NHL?’ when you’re eight years old.
“If you don’t enjoy what you do, you’re not going to be successful.”
Hughes also recalled watching the dramatic women’s gold-medal game alongside his older brother, Quinn Hughes.
At one point, he admitted, the brothers nearly left the arena as the U.S. trailed their rivals, the Canada women’s national ice hockey team.
“Me and Quinn were at that full game. We were going to leave after the second period,” Hughes said.
“Then they were down 1-0.”
But the Americans rallied late and eventually secured the victory, leaving the Hughes brothers relieved and energized.
“We were so nervous for the girls because we knew that they were the better team,” he concluded.
“Obviously they score one late and then they end overtime. We were just so relieved.”
With the NHL postseason approaching, Hughes is preparing to shift his focus back to the Devils‘ playoff push. Fixing his teeth may happen soon, but the Olympic glow – and the pride of bringing home gold – is likely to last much longer.
For Hughes and USA Hockey, the double gold from Milan could mark the beginning of a new era of excitement and growth for the sport in the United States.