Matt Boldy nets hat trick as Wild outlast Predators in OT

Minnesota forward scores three goals in first period, sets up game-winner in extra session

Feb. 5, 2026 at 8:47am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Matt Boldy scored a hat trick in the first period and set up Jared Spurgeon's game-winning goal as the Minnesota Wild pulled off a crazy 6-5 overtime victory against the host Nashville Predators on Wednesday night. Late in the extra session, Boldy sent a cross-ice pass to Spurgeon, who beat Juuse Saros with 46 seconds remaining.

Why it matters

This was a high-scoring, back-and-forth affair between two Western Conference playoff contenders. Boldy's heroics helped the Wild extend their winning streak to five games heading into the Olympic break, while the Predators missed an opportunity to gain ground in the tight Central Division race.

The details

Boldy gave Minnesota an early 1-0 lead at 1:49 of the first period, then added two more goals in the opening frame to complete the hat trick. The Predators battled back to tie the game 3-3 by the end of the first, then took a 4-3 lead early in the second. The teams traded goals in the third period to set up the overtime thriller, where Boldy set up Spurgeon's game-winner.

  • Boldy scored his first goal at 1:49 of the first period.
  • Boldy scored his second goal on the power play at 3:39 of the first period.
  • Boldy completed his hat trick at 12:58 of the first period.
  • Spurgeon scored the game-winning goal with 46 seconds remaining in overtime.

The players

Matt Boldy

A forward for the Minnesota Wild who scored a hat trick in the first period and assisted on the game-winning goal in overtime.

Jared Spurgeon

The Minnesota Wild defenseman who scored the game-winning goal in overtime off a pass from Boldy.

Juuse Saros

The Nashville Predators goaltender who made 38 saves in the losing effort.

Roman Josi

The Nashville Predators defenseman who scored a goal and added an assist.

Filip Forsberg

The Nashville Predators forward who scored a goal and added an assist.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“That was a crazy game, back and forth all night. But we stuck with it and Boldy made some huge plays for us. I'm proud of the guys for battling through and getting the win.”

— Dean Evason, Minnesota Wild Head Coach

What’s next

The Wild will head into the Olympic break riding a five-game winning streak, while the Predators will look to regroup and make a push for the playoffs in the second half of the season.

The takeaway

This game showcased the offensive firepower of both teams, with Boldy's hat trick and several lead changes keeping the fans on the edge of their seats. The Wild's ability to battle back and win in overtime demonstrated their resilience and will be a confidence boost heading into the break.