Penguins Clinch Playoff Spot with Shootout Win in Belleville

Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins secure postseason berth with 2-1 victory over Belleville Senators

Mar. 21, 2026 at 3:19am

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The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins clinched their spot in the 2026 Calder Cup Playoffs with a 2-1 shootout win over the Belleville Senators on Friday night. The game went to overtime after the teams were tied 1-1 at the end of regulation, and the Penguins prevailed in the shootout, going a perfect 3-for-3 to secure the victory.

Why it matters

The Penguins' playoff berth is an important milestone for the team, which has been working hard all season to secure a postseason spot. This win not only clinches their place in the playoffs, but also demonstrates the team's resilience and ability to win close, hard-fought games.

The details

Aidan McDonough scored the Penguins' lone goal in regulation, giving them a 1-0 lead in the second period. Belleville tied the game late in the second, sending it to overtime. In the shootout, McDonough, Gabe Klassen, and Avery Hayes all scored for the Penguins, while goaltender Joel Blomqvist turned aside one of Belleville's attempts to secure the win.

  • The game was played on Friday, March 21, 2026 at CAA Arena in Belleville, Ontario.
  • McDonough scored the Penguins' goal 2 minutes into the second period.
  • Belleville tied the game with 4:38 left in the second period.

The players

Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins

The American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate of the Pittsburgh Penguins, based in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania.

Belleville Senators

The AHL affiliate of the Ottawa Senators, based in Belleville, Ontario.

Aidan McDonough

A forward for the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins who scored the team's lone goal in regulation.

Gabe Klassen

A forward for the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins who scored in the shootout.

Avery Hayes

A forward for the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins who scored the game-winning goal in the shootout.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The Penguins will conclude their Canadian road trip with a game against the Toronto Marlies on Sunday, March 22.

The takeaway

The Penguins' playoff-clinching win demonstrates the team's resilience and ability to win close games, which will serve them well as they prepare for the postseason.