News - Hutson's Resilience: U.S. Star Remains Optimistic After Injury

Despite sustaining a head injury from a puck during the World Junior Championship match against Germany, Cole Hutson remains a prominent figure in the U.S. team's lineup. Hutson, a Boston University sensation, demonstrated his prowess by assisting twice in the team's 6-3 victory over Germany, solidifying his role as a pivotal player. His exceptional performance is reminiscent of his dominant display at the 2025 World Juniors, where he notably topped the scoring chart with 11 points as a defenseman—a rarity at the tournament. Beyond his international exploits, Hutson has been a standout performer for Boston University this season, amassing seven goals and 13 assists over 18 games. This impressive form underscores his reputation as a formidable talent in collegiate hockey. The U.S. team is eyeing their next challenge against Slovakia, slated for an evening face-off on Saturday. Further adding to their tightly packed schedule, they will meet Sweden on Dec. 31 to conclude the round-robin stage of the tournament. As the playoff rounds loom on Jan. 2, Team USA aspires for an unprecedented third consecutive championship victory, with Hutson's quick recovery being a significant factor in their quest for gold.