Mathew Barzal’s overtime heroics secured a thrilling 4-3 victory for the New York Islanders over the Toronto Maple Leafs on Thursday night. Barzal, with his 12th goal of the season, completed the comeback just 21 seconds into overtime after contributing to the Islanders’ first three goals. Kyle Palmieri, Alexander Romanov, and Bo Horvat also found the back of the net, while Noah Dobson showcased his playmaking skills with three assists.
The game saw Toronto’s Auston Matthews, the league leader with 33 goals, scoring twice, first 26 seconds into the second period and later extending the lead to 3-1 with a backhand at 2:40. However, the Islanders mounted a comeback as Romanov and Horvat scored to level the score. Palmieri had opened the scoring just 40 seconds into the game, capitalizing on a power-play opportunity.
Bobby McMann responded for Toronto in the first period, ensuring an early tie in the contest. Notably, the Islanders’ power-play proficiency was on display, with Palmieri’s goal contributing to their 28 power-play goals this season, approaching last season’s total.
This victory marked a rebound for the Islanders after a 5-2 home loss to Vancouver earlier in the week. The Maple Leafs, on the other hand, suffered their second overtime defeat to the Islanders this season, following a 4-3 loss on December 11.
Looking ahead, the Islanders will face the Nashville Predators on Saturday night, while the Maple Leafs are set to host the Colorado Avalanche. The Islanders will aim to build on their momentum, while Toronto seeks redemption on home ice.