Winnipeg Jets forward Brandon Tanev (73) scored against Edmonton Oilers goaltender Stuart Skinner (74) during the third period of their NHL game in Edmonton on Thursday, March 20, 2025. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jason Franson)
The Winnipeg Jets bounced back in style after a rough 6-2 loss to Vancouver earlier in the week, securing a thrilling 4-3 overtime win against the Edmonton Oilers on Thursday. Kyle Connor sealed the victory just over a minute into extra time, marking a strong finish to their road trip.
The Oilers played without their top goalscorer, Leon Draisaitl, and faced another blow when Connor McDavid left in the third period due to an upper-body injury. Goalie Stuart Skinner also exited late in the game after a collision. There was no immediate update on McDavid’s condition post-game.
Connor acknowledged Edmonton’s tough situation but emphasized his team’s resilience. "They were missing key guys, but we stayed locked in, played tight, and supported each other," he said.
With this win, the Jets hit the 100-point milestone for just the third time in franchise history—and the fastest they’ve ever done it, achieving the feat in 70 games, four games quicker than in 2017-18.
How the Game Unfolded
The Oilers forced overtime when Zach Hyman tied the game at 3-3 with just over five minutes left in regulation. However, the Jets capitalized in the extra frame. Goalie Connor Hellebuyck made a crucial save on Hyman before Winnipeg took control in the offensive zone. Moving the puck well, they set up Connor, who fired home his 37th goal past Edmonton’s backup Calvin Pickard.
“It’s the result we wanted,” said Jets forward Brandon Tanev. “It wasn’t perfect, but good teams find ways to win.”
Tanev, Cole Perfetti, and Josh Morrissey also found the back of the net for Winnipeg, which has now won four of its last five games.
Lessons from the Win
Head coach Scott Arniel praised his team’s effort but saw room for improvement. "We had the lead and should’ve locked it down," he said. "But getting the win in OT was big for us."
Connor stressed the importance of not dwelling on past losses. "It’s easy to get complacent, but we stay focused on the next challenge," he said. "Vancouver played desperate for a playoff spot, and we needed to match that urgency tonight."
Hellebuyck played a key role in the victory, making 20 saves and improving his season record to 40-10-3—just five wins away from a personal best.
With this win, the Jets continue their push for the playoffs, proving their ability to respond to setbacks with strong performances.
