NHL

Quinn Hughes scores overtime winner to send USA to semifinals

Published

February 18, 2026

Geoff Burke -- IMAGN IMAGES

Minnesota Wild defenseman Quinn Hughes scored the winner in overtime against Sweden to win 2-1. The US now faces Slovakia in the semifinals.

QUINN HUGHES OT GOAL TO SEND THE UNITED STATES TO THE SEMIFINALS 😱🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/4U6El1Z8sl

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— ESPN (@espn) February 18, 2026

The US struck first, with a goal midway through the second period from Red Wings center Dylan Larkin. However, Rangers center Mika Zibanejad scored with just 1:31 left in the game to tie it 1-1. Then, in overtime, Hughes was able to rip one past Jacob Markstrom to win 2-1.

Hughes has been one an absolute tear as of late. He has recorded a point in every single game for the US so far in the Olympics, with the overtime winner being his first goal of the tournament.

The US now faces Slovakia in the semifinals, and still has a chance to play against Canada in the gold medal game.

About the Author Published Feb 18, 2026

CAMERON JOYCE

Cameron Joyce is an NCAAF, NFL, NHL, and MLB beat writer for Ball Exclusives. Cameron also previously worked at The University of Alabama's newspaper, "The Crimson White," covering volleyball and baseball.