Jack Hughes

Jack Hughes, a professional ice hockey player, currently serves as an alternate captain for the New Jersey Devils in the National Hockey League (NHL). His career in the NHL started strong as he was drafted first overall by the Devils in the 2019 NHL entry draft. Hughes has a long list of individual accomplishments, including setting a franchise record for the Devils with 99 points in the 2022-23 season and becoming the fastest player in Devils history to reach 100 NHL goals. He also secured an eight-year contract extension with the Devils in November 2021.

Not only has Hughes excelled in the NHL, he has also made significant contributions to the United States men's national team. He was a key member of the team that won the gold medal in ice hockey at the 2026 Winter Olympics, scoring the game-winning goal in overtime of the gold medal match against Canada. This was a landmark victory, marking the first men's ice hockey gold medal for the U.S. since 1980. Earlier, Hughes led the U.S. team at the 2018 World U18 Championships, earning MVP and Best Forward honors, and setting a record for goals scored at the tournament.

Beyond his on-ice accomplishments, Hughes has gained recognition in other arenas as well. He was named to three NHL All-Star Games (2022, 2023, 2024) and was nominated for the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy for sportsmanship and high standard of playing ability. Hughes also made history off the ice when he, along with his brothers, appeared on the cover of "NHL 25", marking the first time siblings have shared this honor.