Brady Tkachuk delivered a dramatic overtime goal just 1:46 into the extra period, securing the Ottawa Senators a 3-2 victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins on Saturday. Tkachuk’s game-winning play came after a slick toe-drag move around Erik Karlsson in the slot, followed by a wrist shot that beat Pittsburgh’s goalie, Tristan Jarry. The goal capped off a resilient performance by Ottawa, with Tkachuk stressing the importance of playing for each other and sticking to their identity. The Senators’ victory marked their third straight win, the team’s first three-game streak of the season.
Ottawa’s offense was balanced, with Thomas Chabot contributing both a goal and an assist. Chabot opened the scoring in the first period after Claude Giroux outwaited Jarry and fed him for a one-timer. Drake Batherson also found the back of the net, while Chabot’s assist on Batherson’s goal in the third period showcased a creative play. Head coach Travis Green lauded his team for their perseverance, particularly when Pittsburgh responded to tie the game in the third period. Ottawa’s ability to rebound from setbacks helped them clinch the win.
In net, Linus Ullmark was outstanding, making 25 saves to earn the victory. Ullmark, who had earned a shutout against the Carolina Hurricanes the previous night, stepped in as the starter after Anton Forsberg was injured during warmups. Despite the unexpected change, Ullmark remained composed, and his key saves, including a critical paddle stop against Karlsson in the first period, kept the Senators in the lead. Ullmark has been on a hot streak, extending his record to 6-0-1 in his past seven starts.
Pittsburgh, despite playing a solid game, could not pull out a win. Blake Lizotte and Kris Letang scored for the Penguins, with Letang’s goal in the third period tying the game at 2-2. Letang’s wrist shot from the point found its way past Ullmark, but it was not enough to prevent the Penguins from falling short. Head coach Mike Sullivan noted that while Ottawa’s defense was tough, Pittsburgh’s failure to break through early on ultimately cost them the game.
The game was a back-and-forth affair, with Ottawa regaining the lead in the third after Chabot’s shot deflected off Batherson’s skate. Despite Pittsburgh’s best efforts to tie the game with Letang’s goal, Tkachuk’s overtime winner sealed the Senators’ win. The game was a testament to Ottawa’s growing resilience, with the team showing maturity and composure in crucial moments. For the Penguins, it was a tough loss, as they were unable to capitalize on their opportunities and secure the win in a hard-fought contest.
