Hurricanes defeat Penguins in OT thriller

Sean Walker's late goal spoils Sidney Crosby's return to Pittsburgh lineup

Mar. 19, 2026 at 4:34am

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The Carolina Hurricanes defeated the Pittsburgh Penguins 6-5 in overtime on Wednesday night. Sean Walker scored the game-winning goal with just 28.3 seconds left in the extra period, spoiling the return of Penguins star Sidney Crosby to the lineup.

Why it matters

This was an important divisional matchup between two top teams in the Eastern Conference. The Hurricanes' victory keeps them in the hunt for a playoff spot, while the loss is a setback for the Penguins as they try to secure their postseason position.

The details

In addition to Walker's game-winner, the Hurricanes got goals from Jackson Blake, who also had two assists, as well as Logan Hutsko and three other players. The Penguins rallied from a 5-3 deficit in the third period to force overtime, but ultimately came up short.

  • The game was played on Wednesday, March 19, 2026.
  • Sean Walker scored the game-winning goal with just 28.3 seconds left in overtime.

The players

Sean Walker

The Carolina Hurricanes forward scored the overtime game-winning goal.

Sidney Crosby

The star center for the Pittsburgh Penguins returned to the lineup after missing time due to injury.

Jackson Blake

The Hurricanes forward scored a goal and had two assists in the game.

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What they’re saying

“That was a huge win for us against a tough divisional opponent. We never gave up and found a way to get it done in overtime.”

— Sean Walker, Hurricanes forward

What’s next

The Hurricanes will look to build on this victory as they continue their push for a playoff spot, while the Penguins will try to rebound in their next game.

The takeaway

This thrilling overtime game showcased the intensity of the rivalry between the Hurricanes and Penguins, and the importance of each game as teams jockey for position in the tight Eastern Conference playoff race.