Olympic hero Jack Hughes receives rousing ovation in first game back with Devils

Jack Hughes received a hero’s welcome Wednesday in a ceremony held before he took the ice for the New Jersey Devils again.

Hughes, the 24-year-old top pick of the 2019 NHL Draft, on Sunday scored the overtime winner to give the United States its first gold medal in men’s hockey since 1980. It’s been a whirlwind few days, which included a trip to Washington, D.C., and plenty of controversy, but all that melted away as he was feted at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

The Devils honored all their players who participated in the Olympics, but a special spot was reserved for their American star. After taking a brief skate with Tage Thompson of the visiting Buffalo Sabres, who was also on Team USA, an emotional Hughes grabbed the mic and thanked the fans.

Watch full ceremony honoring Jack Hughes

Hughes, who was greeted by chants of “USA,” gave brief remarks before the game.

“I’m so proud and I’m so happy that the men’s and women’s USA hockey teams brought gold medals back to the United States of America,” Hughes said.

“You guys are making me emotional,” Hughes continued. “But, I’m so proud to represent the New Jersey Devils organization. And I’m so, so proud to represent the great state of New Jersey. So proud.

“From the bottom of my heart — all my teammates, USA teammates — we just want to thank you guys for all the love and the support. We feel it. Thank you.”