Team USA Eliminates Sweden in Overtime Thriller

Team USA delivered its most impressive victory of the 2026 Winter Olympic Games. Just 3:27 into the overtime period, Quinn Hughes took a pass from Matt Boldy, drove toward the net, and released a wrist shot from between the red circles that beat Jacob Markstrom, sealing the win for the Americans. The goal sparked a mix of celebration and relief, as multiple players admitted afterward that they felt some nerves heading into the extra frame.

This matchup marked the stiffest challenge the Americans have encountered so far. Denmark pushed them, and Germany had upset potential, but neither squad matched Sweden’s depth and skill. Sweden’s lineup, composed entirely of NHL players, featured several of the top talents in the world. Defeating a team of that caliber should provide a significant confidence boost for the United States and reinforce that they can compete with—and defeat—any opponent in the tournament. Below are the key takeaways.

Jack Hughes Emerging as Team USA’s Top Forward

Although Quinn Hughes delivered the game-winner against Sweden, his brother Jack Hughes has stood out as Team USA’s most effective forward overall. Through four games, he has tallied one goal and three assists for a total of four points. While he doesn’t lead the team statistically in any single category, he has arguably been the most dynamic forward on the ice. His speed and constant involvement have made him a noticeable presence in nearly every sequence. Dylan Larkin’s goal, for example, was set up by Hughes firing a shot from the point that created the opportunity.

Hughes’ performance in this tournament is elevating his profile nationally. While dedicated hockey fans were already aware of his talent, he had yet to gain widespread recognition beyond the sport’s core audience. Given his impact at these Games, that’s quickly changing. This Olympic run could become a defining chapter in his career and help distinguish him from many of his NHL peers.

Charlie McAvoy’s Impactful Performance

The Hughes brothers were not alone in influencing the outcome against Sweden. Charlie McAvoy delivered a physical and assertive performance, recording multiple hits that disrupted Sweden’s offensive rhythm. He also played strong positional defense, limiting high-quality chances and preventing sustained pressure. This outing was McAvoy’s most complete of the tournament and more closely resembled the level he displayed during the 4 Nations Face-Off—exactly the type of contribution Team USA envisioned when selecting him for the roster.

Prior to this game, McAvoy had largely flown under the radar and had not recorded a point in the four contests the U.S. had played. A contributing factor was the jaw injury he suffered in November, which required him to wear a protective bubble. This was his first appearance without it, and the added comfort appeared to boost both his confidence and overall play. If he continues performing at this level while fully healthy, McAvoy could provide the steady presence the Americans need—potentially becoming a key factor in their pursuit of a medal.