Brady Tkachuk's late goal lifts Senators over Islanders

Ottawa rallies for 3-2 victory in crucial Eastern Conference matchup

Mar. 20, 2026 at 5:59am

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Brady Tkachuk scored the game-winning goal with just 12.2 seconds remaining in regulation to lift the Ottawa Senators to a 3-2 victory over the New York Islanders on Thursday night. The Senators rallied from a 2-1 deficit in the third period to secure the crucial win and close the gap in the Eastern Conference playoff race.

Why it matters

This was a key game in the tight Eastern Conference playoff race, with the Senators looking to gain ground on the Islanders for the final wild-card spot. The late heroics from Tkachuk could prove pivotal as the teams jockey for position down the stretch.

The details

The Islanders took a 2-1 lead early in the third period on a goal by Brayden Schenn, but the Senators responded quickly to tie it up on a goal by Warren Foegele. In the final seconds, Tkachuk was able to jam home the game-winner amid a scramble in front of the Islanders' net.

  • The game was played on Thursday, March 20, 2026.
  • Tkachuk's game-winning goal came with just 12.2 seconds remaining in regulation.

The players

Brady Tkachuk

The 24-year-old forward for the Ottawa Senators scored the game-winning goal with 12.2 seconds left to lift his team to victory.

Ilya Sorokin

The Islanders' 27-year-old goaltender made 23 saves in the losing effort.

James Reimer

The 34-year-old goaltender for the Senators made 17 saves to earn the win.

Brayden Schenn

The 30-year-old Islanders forward scored the go-ahead goal early in the third period.

Warren Foegele

The 26-year-old Senators forward tied the game in the third period to set the stage for Tkachuk's heroics.

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What they’re saying

“We must find a way to close out these tight games. This one stings, but we'll regroup and get ready for the next one.”

— Barry Trotz, Head Coach, New York Islanders

“That was a huge win for us. The boys showed a lot of heart to battle back and get the two points. We're not done yet, but this is a big step in the right direction.”

— D.J. Smith, Head Coach, Ottawa Senators

What’s next

The Islanders will look to bounce back quickly as they face the Tampa Bay Lightning on Saturday. The Senators, meanwhile, will try to build on this momentum when they host the Pittsburgh Penguins on Monday.

The takeaway

This thrilling comeback victory for the Senators showcases their resilience and determination as they continue to fight for a playoff spot in the tight Eastern Conference race. The late heroics from Tkachuk could prove to be a pivotal moment in Ottawa's season.