Penguins Top Jets in Shootout as Karlsson Scores Twice

Rickard Rakell scored the shootout clincher to give Pittsburgh the win.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 12:19am

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The Pittsburgh Penguins defeated the Winnipeg Jets 5-4 in a shootout on Saturday afternoon. Defenseman Erik Karlsson scored two goals for the Penguins, while Rickard Rakell scored the shootout winner. The game featured a back-and-forth battle with both teams taking the lead at various points.

Why it matters

This was an important win for the Penguins as they continue to battle for a playoff spot in the competitive Eastern Conference. Karlsson's offensive production from the blue line has been a key factor in the Penguins' success this season.

The details

The Penguins opened the scoring early in the first period with goals from Egor Chinakhov and Rakell. The Jets responded with goals from Morgan Barron, Cole Koepke, and Neal Pionk to tie the game. Karlsson scored twice for the Penguins, but the Jets took a late 4-3 lead on a goal from Brad Lambert. Karlsson then tied the game with 7:15 left to send it to overtime. In the shootout, Sidney Crosby and Rakell scored to give the Penguins the victory.

  • The Penguins opened the scoring just 1:06 into the first period.
  • The Jets scored a short-handed goal at the 13:51 mark of the second period.
  • Karlsson scored the game-tying goal with 7:15 remaining in the third period.

The players

Erik Karlsson

A defenseman for the Pittsburgh Penguins who scored two goals in the game.

Rickard Rakell

A forward for the Pittsburgh Penguins who scored the shootout clincher.

Brad Lambert

A forward for the Winnipeg Jets who scored a goal and an assist.

Connor Hellebuyck

The goaltender for the Winnipeg Jets who made 26 saves.

Sidney Crosby

The captain of the Pittsburgh Penguins who scored in the shootout.

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What they’re saying

“We knew it was going to be a tough game against a good Jets team. I'm proud of the way we battled back and found a way to win in the shootout.”

— Mike Sullivan, Head Coach, Pittsburgh Penguins

What’s next

The Penguins will look to build on this win as they continue their push for a playoff spot, while the Jets will try to rebound from the tough loss.

The takeaway

This game showcased the offensive talent of both teams, with Karlsson and Rakell leading the way for the Penguins. The back-and-forth nature of the contest made for an exciting finish that was decided in the shootout.