Islanders Beat Sharks in Overtime: DeAngelo & Celebrini Score | NHL Recap

SAN JOSE, Calif. – Bo Horvat’s late goal in overtime lifted the New York Islanders to a 2-1 victory over the San Jose Sharks on Saturday night, snapping a two-game losing streak and solidifying their position in the Metropolitan Division playoff race. Horvat scored with just 39.6 seconds remaining in the extra period, silencing the crowd at SAP Center.

The win improves the Islanders’ record to 36-23-5, moving them into second place in the Metropolitan Division with 77 points, one ahead of the Pittsburgh Penguins. It also extends their remarkable overtime record to 9-0 this season, making them the only NHL team yet to suffer an overtime defeat.

“I thought we played a solid game all around,” Islanders forward Jean-Gabriel Pageau said. “Both goalies were really solid. A lot of blocked shots from the guys. A lot of sacrifice. We finished with the extra point, so it was huge.”

Tony DeAngelo also scored for the Islanders, although Ilya Sorokin delivered a strong performance in net, stopping 30 of 31 shots faced. For the Sharks, Macklin Celebrini continued his impressive rookie campaign with his third goal in as many games, but it wasn’t enough to prevent the defeat. Yaroslav Askarov made 32 saves in goal for San Jose.

DeAngelo opened the scoring for the Islanders at 11:37 of the first period. Skating from the point towards the top of the right circle, his wrist shot deflected off Askarov’s glove and found the back of the net. It was DeAngelo’s fifth goal of the season and his first since January 26th.

“They are massive points,” DeAngelo said. “Huge for us. Just controlling the puck, we’re not giving up too much. Really good job.”

The Sharks responded quickly in the second period, tying the game just 33 seconds in. Will Smith found Celebrini in the slot, who then fired a wrist shot past Sorokin over the glove. John Klingberg also assisted on the play, marking Celebrini’s 32nd goal of the season.

“Just gotta keep playing,” Celebrini said. “Couple tough losses last two games, and right there, I think we just require to capitalize on our chances.”

Following Celebrini’s goal, the game settled into a defensive battle, with both teams struggling to create sustained offensive pressure. The period ended tied 1-1, and the third period mirrored the second, with neither team able to break the deadlock. The teams traded chances, but both Sorokin and Askarov stood tall, forcing the game into overtime.

Overtime saw both teams generate scoring opportunities, but Sorokin continued to be a standout for the Islanders, making several key saves to keep his team in the game. Finally, with time winding down, Matthew Schaefer sent a stretch pass to Horvat in the neutral zone. Horvat carried the puck into the Sharks’ zone and buried a backhand shot past Askarov, securing the win for the Islanders.

The Sharks, now 30-25-6, have been competitive recently, going 3-0-2 in their last five games. Despite the loss, Sharks coach Ryan Warsofsky acknowledged his team’s effort.

“Some things we did well, and it’s a tough game out there. You gotta fight for ice,” Warsofsky said. “That’s a good team there. They defend really hard. Obviously got us in a back to back as well. So, you know, I thought our guys grinded.”

The Islanders’ victory comes with the added note of Brayden Schenn making his debut for the team after being acquired from the St. Louis Blues at the trade deadline. Schenn played 17:26, registering one shot and one blocked shot. The acquisition of Schenn is intended to bolster the Islanders’ depth and provide a veteran presence as they push for a playoff spot.

The Islanders’ success in overtime this season is a testament to their composure and ability to execute under pressure. Their 9-0 record in overtime is not only a league best but also highlights their resilience and determination. As they continue their pursuit of a playoff berth, the Islanders will look to maintain their strong play and capitalize on opportunities to secure valuable points.

For the Sharks, the loss is a setback, but they remain in contention for a Western Conference playoff spot. Celebrini’s continued strong play is a positive sign for the future, and the team will look to build on their recent competitive performances as they navigate the remainder of the season.