Team USA's Hutson stretchered off after taking puck to neck
United States defenseman Cole Hutson was stretchered off the ice during the second period of Saturday's contest against Switzerland after taking a puck to the neck area.
Cole Hutson had to be stretchered off the ice after taking a puck to the head vs. Switzerland. 🙏 #WorldJuniors pic.twitter.com/JDEx3oECTB
— TSN (@TSN_Sports) December 28, 2025
Hutson was down for several minutes and moving his extremities before medics helped him off the ice.
Hutson was later discharged from the hospital and rejoined his teammates at the rink, Team USA head coach Bob Motzko told NHL Network's Jon Morosi. His status for the remainder of the tournament will be evaluated Sunday.
The Washington Capitals prospect is a returnee from last year's gold medal-winning team. He was named a tournament All-Star after leading the event with 11 points.
Hutson collected two assists in the U.S.' Boxing Day win over Germany. He posted 20 points in 18 games with Boston University before the tournament began.
He's the younger brother of Montreal Canadiens star Lane Hutson, who won the Calder Trophy as NHL rookie of the year in 2025.
The U.S. ultimately won the contest 2-1. The hosts return to action Monday against Slovakia.