theathleticuk
Connor Hellebuyck's first game as a New Jersey Devil brought back memories of the Winter Olympics, and not just because of the score. Jack Hughes, who lost teeth to a high stick during the gold medal game in February, repeated the unfortunate feat on Tuesday night in Dallas.
During the first period, Hughes was struck in the face by the stick of Stars forward Justin Hryckowian while being checked by Devils teammate Jesper Bratt. Hughes dropped to the ice, appeared to spit out his teeth, and skated to the dressing room. He later returned wearing a face shield and scored New Jersey's final goal in the third period, extending the lead to 5-1 and securing the win.
Hellebuyck, making his debut for the Devils, stopped 17 of 18 shots in an impressive performance. The game came 247 days after the Olympic gold medal match in Italy, where Hellebuyck was stellar and Hughes lost teeth but scored the game-winning goal in overtime for Team USA.
Key Analysis
Hellebuyck's postgame comment captured the coincidence: "Yeah, we've gotta stop doing that, huh? Every time we play together, he loses a tooth." The parallel between the two games highlights Hughes' resilience and Hellebuyck's strong start with his new team.
Originally reported by theathleticuk.