Islanders' Bo Horvat Avoids Bird on the Ice in Hilarious Mic'd-Up Moment

Horvat notches an assist while dealing with an unexpected avian visitor during the Islanders' overtime win over the Penguins.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 7:15am

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In a hilarious moment caught on the microphone, New York Islanders forward Bo Horvat was seen reacting to a bird that had made its way onto the ice during the team's overtime victory against the Pittsburgh Penguins. Despite the unexpected visitor, Horvat was still able to record an assist in the game, which the Islanders went on to win.

Why it matters

The presence of a live bird on the ice during an NHL game is an extremely rare occurrence, making Horvat's reaction and ability to continue contributing to the game's outcome all the more noteworthy. This lighthearted moment provides a glimpse into the unpredictable nature of professional sports and the ability of players to adapt to unusual circumstances.

The details

During the first period of the Islanders' game against the Penguins, Horvat was caught on the microphone saying "There's a bird in here. I ran into him. Dude, I ran into him behind the net. Poor guy." Despite the unexpected distraction, Horvat was able to record an assist on a goal scored by Matthew Schaefer, helping the Islanders take an early lead. The Penguins would eventually tie the game, but the Islanders prevailed in overtime, with Horvat scoring the game-winning goal.

  • The incident occurred during the first period of the Islanders' game against the Penguins on February 4, 2026.
  • The Islanders went on to win the game in overtime.

The players

Bo Horvat

A forward for the New York Islanders who was mic'd up during the game and had a hilarious encounter with a bird on the ice.

Matthew Schaefer

An Islanders player who scored a goal in the first period, with Horvat recording an assist.

New York Islanders

The NHL team that won the game against the Pittsburgh Penguins in overtime.

Pittsburgh Penguins

The opposing team that the Islanders defeated in overtime.

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What they’re saying

“There's a bird in here. I ran into him. Dude, I ran into him behind the net. Poor guy.”

— Bo Horvat

“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

What’s next

The Islanders will play their final game before the Olympic break on Thursday, visiting the New Jersey Devils. It remains to be seen if the 'Rally Bird' will make another appearance at that game.

The takeaway

This lighthearted incident showcases the unpredictable nature of professional sports and the ability of players to adapt to unusual circumstances. Despite the unexpected distraction of a bird on the ice, Bo Horvat was still able to contribute to the Islanders' overtime victory, highlighting the resilience and focus of NHL players.