Minnesota Wild Overcome Winnipeg Jets in Overtime Thriller

On December 27, 2025, the Minnesota Wild secured a dramatic 4-3 victory over the Winnipeg Jets at Canada Life Centre, with Matt Boldy scoring the game-winning goal just 39 seconds into overtime. The Wild's comeback was marked by goals from Mats Zuccarello and Kirill Kaprizov, alongside Boldy's two goals. Winnipeg's Mark Scheifele and Kyle Connor each contributed a goal and an assist, while Josh Morrissey also found the net for the Jets. Jesper Wallstedt recorded 23 saves for Minnesota, while Connor Hellebuyck made 15 saves for Winnipeg in front of a sold-out crowd of 15,225.

ESPNJets' Arniel upset with late-game officiating in loss to WildGame Recap: Wild 4, Jets 3 (OT)

The Jets initially took control of the game, leading 3-2 entering the final minute of regulation. However, a critical penalty against Dylan DeMelo for cross-checking allowed the Wild to capitalize on a power play. With just 22 seconds left in the game, Zuccarello scored to tie the game, forcing overtime. The Jets had previously regained the lead in the second period after a quick succession of goals, but they were unable to maintain their advantage.

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Winnipeg head coach Scott Arniel expressed frustration over the officiating, particularly regarding the late penalty on DeMelo. He criticized the non-call on a hit against Morrissey, stating, “That was a terrible non-call on Josh Morrissey. Absolute terrible non-call.” Arniel acknowledged the effort of his team, noting, “What is it, [Minnesota is the] second-hottest team in the League since November 1st? That was a [heck] of a hockey game by us.”

Jets' Arniel upset with late-game officiating in loss to Wild

Minnesota's Wallstedt reflected on the game, emphasizing the importance of making key saves to keep the team in contention. “It’s a hard game... Fortunately, today we could, and the guys came up big,” he stated. Jonathan Toews of the Jets also commented on the team's performance, expressing the need to maintain a positive attitude despite the loss.

Game Recap: Wild 4, Jets 3 (OT)

The late-game officiating drew significant criticism from the Jets' bench. Arniel's anger was directed at the perceived inconsistency in calls, particularly after a hit on Morrissey went unpunished. This incident has raised questions about the impact of officiating on game outcomes, especially in high-stakes moments.

Jets' Arniel upset with late-game officiating in loss to Wild

Following this game, the Minnesota Wild will face the Vegas Golden Knights, while the Winnipeg Jets will host the Edmonton Oilers. Both teams will look to build on their performances as they continue through the season.

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• “That was a terrible non-call on Josh Morrissey. Absolute terrible non-call,” — Scott Arniel, Head Coach, Winnipeg Jets

Jets' Arniel upset with late-game officiating in loss to Wild

• “What is it, [Minnesota is the] second-hottest team in the League since November 1st? That was a [heck] of a hockey game by us. And I thought that we did everything we possibly could to win that hockey game.” — Scott Arniel, Head Coach, Winnipeg Jets

Game Recap: Wild 4, Jets 3 (OT)

• “To give one up like that late, and then obviously the bounces didn't seem to go our way late in the game, it’s definitely frustrating,” — Jonathan Toews, Forward, Winnipeg Jets

Game Recap: Wild 4, Jets 3 (OT)