Hughes Excited to Play with NHL Stars in 4 Nations Tournament

Montreal, Canada — Team USA’s hockey aspirations take center stage as they begin the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament. While anticipation for best-on-best international hockey builds, standout players such as Jack Hughes prepare to showcase their talents on a grand scale.

On February 11, during the first day of practices, Hughes transitioned from center to wing to align with NHL stars Auston Matthews and Jake Guentzel, igniting excitement among fans and analysts alike. Hughes described the moment as a potential turning point for USA Hockey, which hasn’t participated in the Olympics in a decade. “Today is Day 1 of this tournament but you’re hoping it’s kind of like Day 1 for a new future for USA Hockey,” he said. “I think it’s a really exciting start for us.”

Hughes, a 23-year-old forward for the New Jersey Devils, embodies a new generation of American hockey talent. He is part of a broader roster that includes other rising stars like Auston Matthews, Jack Eichel, and the Tkachuk brothers, all products of the United States National Team Development Program (USNTDP). From the USNTDP, 15 of the 20 players hail from the program that Hughes credits for nurturing their skills and fostering a strong sense of community. “It’s kind of that USA hockey brotherhood,” he explained.

Hughes expressed confidence in the teamwork and camaraderie that has developed over the years. “All those guys were with each other when they were fifteen, sixteen… I think everyone knows everyone,” he said. As the youngest members of the squad, Hughes and his age group are eager to prove their mettle on this stage, especially with the Olympics on the horizon.

With the 4 Nations tournament kicking off on February 12 against Finland, Hughes eagerly anticipates sharing the ice with Matthews, an American goal-scoring icon whom Hughes has long admired. “He’s one of the best of the best when it comes to goal scoring,” Hughes said. “It should be fun to play with him.” Matthews reciprocated the praise, expressing his enthusiasm for playing alongside Hughes. “He’s so shifty, so dynamic and he sees the ice very well,” Matthews noted.

In their opening match, Team USA showcased their determination, defeating Finland 6-1, with Hughes notching an assist on one of the goals. This impactful performance underscores Team USA’s depth and talent as they aim to reclaim their place in international hockey.

Aside from the on-ice action, the tournament offers a stage to build relationships and rivalries among players within the NHL. For Jack Hughes and Erik Haula of Finland, competing against teammates in an international setting adds an extra layer of excitement and intrigue. “It was a cool opportunity,” Haula said about their upcoming duel, adding, “It’s going to be fun to play against them.”

As the 4 Nations tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Jack Hughes, Auston Matthews, and their teammates as they embody the future of American hockey and aim for victory with fervor.