Hughes brothers each get 2 assists, USA tops Latvia 5-1 at Olympics

Brother Act at the Olympics: Jack Hughes and Quinn Hughes each tallied two assists Thursday as Team USA demolished Latvia 5-1 in their opening Men’s Ice Hockey bout at Milano Cortina 2026. The Hughes brothers historic debut together marks a generational moment. This dominant victory launches USA into medal contention.

The Hughes Brothers Make Olympic History

Jack Hughes, the New Jersey Devils star, and his brother Quinn Hughes, the Minnesota Wild defenseman, finally shared the ice for Team USA on Thursday. The moment was nothing short of magical. Both brothers recorded exactly two assists each in the dominant 5-1 victory. Jack’s game experience proved crucial on offense, while Quinn controlled play from the back. This was their first Olympic competition together, ending a drought of playing alongside one another at the highest level.

The brothers grew up dreaming of representing their country on the world’s biggest stage. Now, in Milan, that dream became reality. Jack assisted on Brock Nelson’s goals, sparking chemistry immediately. Quinn orchestrated from defense. Their combined presence elevated Team USA‘s overall play throughout the contest.

Brock Nelson Steals the Show with Two Goals

Brock Nelson, at 34 years old, delivered a pair of clinical goals to guide USA to victory. The Avalanche forward, the oldest player on Team USA’s roster, proved age is merely a number. Nelson’s first goal came in the middle period, giving USA a 2-1 lead at 10:38. He buried another to seal the game’s outcome in the second period. Jack Hughes assisted on both tallies, showcasing immediate chemistry on the ice.

Nelson’s performance reignited Team USA’s offense after early adversity. The Latvians had mounted some early resistance with disallowed goals and defensive effort. But Nelson put that to rest with clean, decisive finishing. His playoff-tested hockey sense on display.

Scoring Breakdown and Statistical Dominance

Goal Scorer	Period	Assists
Brady Tkachuk	1st	Team Start
Brock Nelson (1)	2nd	J. Hughes, V. Trocheck
Tage Thompson (PP)	2nd	J. Eichel, Q. Hughes
Brock Nelson (2)	2nd	J. Hughes
Auston Matthews	3rd	Q. Hughes, M. Tkachuk

Team USA recorded 38 shots compared to Latvia’s 18, reflecting total hockey domination. Connor Hellebuyck delivered 17 saves between the pipes, shutting down late Latvian pressure. USA went 2-3 on power play opportunities, while Latvia failed to capitalize on any man advantage. The game cemented Team USA’s credentials as medal contenders in Milano Cortina.

What The Hughes Brothers’ Performance Signals for USA

The Hughes brothers’ success against Latvia signals USA possesses the star power and depth to challenge for gold. Jack’s offensive creativity combined with Quinn’s defensive reliability creates a complete all-around game. Coach Bill Guerin’s squad now advances to a Saturday matchup with Denmark, where young stars and veterans alike must maintain momentum. The brothers proved they can elevate their teammates in critical moments.

“To say you can assist on your younger brother’s play at the Olympics is pretty special,” Jack Hughes reflected after the contest, representing a career achievement both brothers will cherish forever.

— Jack Hughes, New Jersey Devils, Team USA

Can Team USA Ride This Momentum All the Way to Gold?

Thursday’s 5-1 rout of Latvia showcased USA Hockey’s balanced offensive approach and defensive stability. With Brock Nelson producing goals, Matthew Tkachuk creating chances, and both Hughes brothers orchestrating play, Team USA features multiple scoring threats. Connor Hellebuyck’s steady goaltending provides assurance. The Americans will face tougher tests ahead, but opening with such dominance builds championship-level confidence.

The 2026 Winter Olympics remain wide open, but USA Hockey has announced its presence. Jack Hughes, Quinn Hughes, and their teammates now target Denmark, gold medal aspirations, and hockey immortality. Thursday was just the beginning of what could become an unforgettable journey.

Sources

• NHL.com – USD defeats Latvia 5-1 in first Olympic preliminary game with Nelson’s two goals
• Team USA Hockey – Official USA Hockey Olympic Team recap and box score
• IIHF – International Ice Hockey Federation tournament official records and statistics