Panthers edge Jets in shootout

Published: Friday, January 23, 2026 at 4:07 am

Panthers Defeat Jets in Shootout After Tight Contest

In a game with a playoff atmosphere, the Florida Panthers secured a 2-1 shootout victory over the Winnipeg Jets on Thursday night. The contest, marked by close checking, saw both teams battling for crucial points despite not yet being in playoff contention.

The Panthers' shootout success came courtesy of goals from Anton Lundell and Sam Reinhart. Sam Bennett scored the lone regulation goal for Florida, while goaltender Daniil Tarasov made 17 saves and denied two Jets players in the shootout.

Winnipeg's Cole Perfetti scored the Jets' only goal, tying the game in the third period. Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck stopped 19 shots for Winnipeg. The game remained scoreless until late in the second period when Bennett broke the deadlock. The Jets' Josh Morrissey hit the goal post in overtime.

The game also marked the return of Matthew Tkachuk for Florida, who had been sidelined due to surgery. Elias Salomonsson returned to the Jets' lineup after missing two games due to illness.

BNN's Perspective:

While both teams are currently outside the playoff picture, this game demonstrated the competitive spirit and intensity that fans expect. The tight scoreline and the shootout finish highlight the fine margins that often decide games in this league. Both teams will need to find consistency to climb the standings, but this contest offered a glimpse of their potential.

Keywords: Florida Panthers, Winnipeg Jets, shootout, Sam Bennett, Cole Perfetti, Daniil Tarasov, Connor Hellebuyck, Matthew Tkachuk, Elias Salomonsson, NHL, hockey, game recap, sports

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