Horvat's Scoring Surge Lifts Islanders in OT

Veteran forward's timely goals help Islanders secure crucial win over Penguins

Feb. 3, 2026 at 11:31pm

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Bo Horvat broke out of a scoring slump with two key goals, including the game-winner in overtime, to lead the New York Islanders to a 5-4 victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins. Horvat's offensive outburst came at a critical juncture for the Islanders, who are fighting to maintain their playoff position.

Why it matters

Horvat's scoring struggles had been a concern for the Islanders, who rely heavily on his production. This breakout performance could provide a much-needed boost to both Horvat's confidence and the team's playoff aspirations as they battle for a postseason berth.

The details

Horvat scored the opening goal in the first period to end a six-game drought, then netted the game-winner in overtime to secure the victory for the Islanders. The veteran forward had been mired in a slump, missing several prime scoring chances in the team's previous game against the Capitals. However, he was able to capitalize on his opportunities against the Penguins, providing a timely offensive spark for the Islanders.

  • Horvat scored the opening goal in the first period.
  • Horvat scored the game-winning goal in overtime.

The players

Bo Horvat

A veteran forward for the New York Islanders who has been a key offensive contributor for the team.

Mat Barzal

A skilled playmaker for the Islanders who set up Horvat's opening goal.

Stuart Skinner

The goaltender for the Pittsburgh Penguins who was beaten by Horvat's game-winning goal in overtime.

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What they’re saying

“I'd be lying if I said I didn't feel good. Always great to get on the scoreboard. It's always great to score and help your team that way.”

— Bo Horvat (New York Post)

“There's other parts of my game that I take a lot of pride in. Faceoffs, penalty kill — [if] things aren't going the way I want it to go offensively, I got other things to fall back on. Definitely feels good to get that one tonight.”

— Bo Horvat (New York Post)

What’s next

The Islanders will look to build on this momentum as they continue their push for a playoff spot. Their next game is against the division-leading Carolina Hurricanes on Saturday.

The takeaway

Horvat's timely scoring outburst provided a much-needed boost for the Islanders, who have been relying on his offensive production to stay in the playoff hunt. This performance could be a turning point in Horvat's season and help propel the Islanders towards the postseason.