Jack Hughes delivers golden goal as U.S. beats Canada in dramatic OT

The American men’s hockey team captured its first Olympic gold medal in 46 years after defeating Canada 2-1 in a dramatic overtime on Sunday in Milan, Italy.

Jack Hughes scored at 1:41 of 3-on-3 overtime and an outstanding Connor Hellebuyck made 41 saves as the United States defeated its northern neighbour 2-1 in a stunning Sunday gold-medal showdown at the Milano-Cortina Games.

Matt Boldy had the other goal for the Americans to tie a bow on the NHL's return to the world stage following a 12-year absence.

Cale Makar replied for the Canadians. Jordan Binnington made 26 saves.

Canada's NHL stars won Olympic gold with victories over the U.S. in 2002 and 2010 before repeating against Sweden in 2014, but came up short in Milan.

Hughes won it in the extra period when he took a pass from Zach Werenski and fired a shot five-hole past Binnington after Quinn Hughes — Jack's brother — was denied by a huge stop from the Canada's netminder.

Canadian captain Sidney Crosby was scratched for a second straight game with a lower-body injury after missing Friday's semifinal win over Finland.

Jack Hughes' OT winner lifts U.S. over Canada to capture Olympic gold

Superstar centre Connor McDavid again wore the "C" in Crosby's place. He was named tournament MVP with two goals and 11 assists in six games. His 13 points set a record for most at a single Olympics.

Josh Morrissey also sat out for a fifth straight game after the puck-moving defenceman was hurt in Canada's opener last week.

The red-clad, pro-Canadian crowd was in full voice across Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena — a facility completed just before the Games located southeast of Milan's city centre — ahead of puck drop. Dozens of red Maple Leafs were unfurled throughout the