Predators Edge Jets in Shootout Thriller

Ryan O'Reilly's shootout goal lifts Nashville to 4-3 win over Winnipeg

Mar. 18, 2026 at 4:08am

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In a close-fought NHL matchup, the Nashville Predators defeated the Winnipeg Jets 4-3 in a shootout on Tuesday night. Ryan O'Reilly scored the decisive goal in the shootout to give the Predators the victory after the teams were tied 3-3 at the end of regulation.

Why it matters

This was an important divisional matchup between two strong Western Conference teams fighting for playoff positioning. The Predators were able to grind out a hard-fought win on the road, showcasing their resilience and ability to win close games.

The details

The Predators got goals in regulation from Matthew Wood, Filip Forsberg, and Erik Haula, while the Jets responded with scores from Josh Morrissey, Jonathan Toews, and Gabriel Vilardi. Predators goaltender Juuse Saros made 36 saves to keep his team in the game. In the shootout, O'Reilly beat Jets netminder Connor Hellebuyck to secure the victory for Nashville.

  • The game was played on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.
  • Toews scored the game-tying goal for Winnipeg with just 1:01 remaining in the third period.

The players

Ryan O'Reilly

The Predators' forward scored the decisive goal in the shootout to lift Nashville to victory.

Juuse Saros

The Predators' goaltender made 36 saves and stopped all three Jets shooters in the shootout.

Jonathan Toews

The Jets' veteran forward scored the game-tying goal late in the third period to force overtime.

Connor Hellebuyck

The Jets' goaltender made 20 saves but was unable to stop O'Reilly in the shootout.

Brandon Schrader

The sole referee who officiated the game after Chris Lee was unable to attend due to travel issues.

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What they’re saying

“We knew it was going to be a tough battle against a divisional rival, but the guys really dug deep and found a way to get the win. Saros was outstanding in net for us.”

— John Hynes, Predators Head Coach

What’s next

The Predators will host the Seattle Kraken on Thursday, while the Jets will visit the Boston Bruins on the same night.

The takeaway

This hard-fought victory showcases the Predators' ability to win close games and their resilience in the face of adversity. The team's strong goaltending and timely scoring proved to be the difference in a tightly contested matchup against a divisional rival.