Wild Defeat Blackhawks 4-3 in Overtime Rematch

Minnesota wins third straight game against Chicago this season

Mar. 18, 2026 at 6:34am

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The Minnesota Wild defeated the Chicago Blackhawks 4-3 in overtime on Tuesday night. Mats Zuccarello scored the game-winning goal 3:09 into the extra period, while Marcus Johansson had a goal and two assists for the Wild. The Blackhawks' Frank Nazar forced overtime with a late third-period goal, but Minnesota dominated in the extra session. This was the third meeting between the teams this season, with each game needing overtime or a shootout and ending with the same 4-3 final score.

Why it matters

The Wild and Blackhawks have developed a close rivalry this season, with their matchups going down to the wire each time. This overtime victory helps Minnesota stop a three-game losing skid and maintain their dominance over Chicago, who have struggled to find consistency this year.

The details

Mats Zuccarello scored the game-winning goal 3:09 into overtime to give the Wild the victory. Marcus Johansson had a goal and two assists, while Brock Faber recorded three assists for Minnesota. The Blackhawks' Frank Nazar forced overtime with a late third-period goal, and Louis Crevier and Ryan Greene also scored for Chicago. Goaltenders Filip Gustavsson and Spencer Knight both made over 20 saves in the game.

  • The game was played on Tuesday, March 18, 2026.
  • Zuccarello scored the overtime winner at 3:09 of the extra period.
  • Nazar tied the game for Chicago with 1:40 remaining in regulation.

The players

Mats Zuccarello

Forward for the Minnesota Wild who scored the overtime game-winning goal.

Marcus Johansson

Forward for the Minnesota Wild who had a goal and two assists in the game.

Frank Nazar

Forward for the Chicago Blackhawks who scored the game-tying goal late in the third period to force overtime.

Spencer Knight

Goaltender for the Chicago Blackhawks who made 33 saves in the loss.

Filip Gustavsson

Goaltender for the Minnesota Wild who made 21 saves and briefly left the game before returning.

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What they’re saying

“We must find a way to close out these close games against Minnesota. They've had our number this season.”

— Frank Nazar, Forward, Chicago Blackhawks (Chicago Tribune)

“It was a hard-fought game, but we found a way to get the two points. Zuccarello's goal in overtime was a beauty.”

— Marcus Johansson, Forward, Minnesota Wild (Star Tribune)

What’s next

The Wild and Blackhawks will conclude their season series on Thursday, March 20th in Minneapolis.

The takeaway

The Wild and Blackhawks have developed an intense rivalry this season, with each of their three meetings going down to the wire. Minnesota's ability to win these close games against Chicago, even when trailing late, shows their resilience and ability to grind out victories against a divisional opponent.