Collin Graf Scores In Overtime As Sharks Beat Wild 2-1

Collin Graf delivered a thrilling overtime winner as the San Jose Sharks defeated the Minnesota Wild 2-1 on Tuesday night in St. Paul, Minnesota. The goal came 2:40 into the extra period and extended San Jose’s winning streak to a season-best four games. The victory marked another strong performance from the rebuilding Sharks, who continue to show improvement and resilience under pressure.

Rookie forward Macklin Celebrini was at the heart of both Sharks goals, registering two assists, including the setup for Graf’s game-winning strike. On the decisive play, Celebrini carried the puck into the Wild’s zone, patiently waiting for the right opening. He slipped a perfect pass between the legs of Minnesota defenseman Jonas Brodin, finding Graf, who quickly fired past goaltender Filip Gustavsson before he could react. The play demonstrated Celebrini’s excellent vision and poise for such a young player.

The victory gave San Jose its fourth consecutive win, marking their best stretch of the season. It has been a positive turnaround for a team that struggled early in the year. Strong goaltending, improved defense, and better power-play execution have all contributed to the Sharks’ recent success. Head coach Ryan Warsofsky praised his team’s effort and composure, noting that the group is learning how to close out tight games.

Goaltender Yaroslav Askarov was another standout performer for the Sharks. The young netminder made 28 saves on 29 shots, keeping his team in the game through several tense moments. Askarov’s calm play in the crease gave the Sharks confidence, especially as they faced multiple power plays from the Wild. His save percentage has been among the best in the league over the past few weeks, and this game added to his growing reputation.

The Minnesota Wild opened the scoring 5:02 into the second period with a power-play goal from Matt Boldy. Positioned in the right circle, Boldy blasted a one-timer off a precise cross-ice pass from veteran forward Mats Zuccarello. The goal marked Boldy’s ninth of the season and his fourth in as many games, continuing his hot streak. Zeev Buium also recorded an assist on the play, helping the Wild take the early advantage.

San Jose tied the game at 1-1 late in the third period, capitalizing on a power-play opportunity. With 8:03 remaining, Celebrini found Will Smith open near the crease and delivered a perfect pass. Smith redirected it past Gustavsson for his seventh goal of the season. The Sharks’ patience and precise puck movement paid off, as they outplayed Minnesota during the final stretch of regulation.

Both teams played disciplined hockey through much of the night, limiting high-danger scoring chances. Minnesota outshot San Jose 29-18, but the Sharks made their chances count. The Wild had several opportunities on four power plays but went only 1-for-4, while the Sharks converted on one of their three chances. The game remained tied through 60 minutes, ensuring each side earned at least one point.

The Sharks didn’t waste time in overtime. After a quick regroup in their own zone, Celebrini and Graf executed a perfect 2-on-1 rush. Graf’s goal — his fifth of the season — sealed the victory and sent the visiting bench into celebration. The moment also highlighted San Jose’s growing confidence in close games and their ability to finish strong.

For the Minnesota Wild, the loss ended a two-game winning streak. Despite solid efforts from Boldy and goaltender Gustavsson, the team struggled to generate offense outside the power play. The Wild will look to bounce back in their next matchup as they continue to fight for consistency in a competitive Western Conference.

The Sharks’ top young players — Graf, Celebrini, and Smith — have shown strong chemistry in recent games. Their energy and creativity have reinvigorated the team and given fans hope for the future. With steady goaltending and improving defense, San Jose’s recent performances suggest they are on the right track to building a more competitive squad.