Columbus Blue Jackets Secure Victory
In a decisive performance at the Prudential Center, the Columbus Blue Jackets secured a convincing 3-0 victory over the New Jersey Devils, extending their winning streak to six games. Key contributions came from Mathieu Olivier, who netted two goals during the third period, and goaltender Elvis Merzlikins, who achieved his first shutout of the season with a solid display of 23 saves.
Game Highlights
The game’s dynamics shifted notably in the third period, when Dante Fabbro tallied his fourth goal of the season, breaking the deadlock just 5:24 into the period. Fabbro’s wrist shot from just inside the left circle found its way past Devils’ netminder Jakob Markstrom, igniting a scoring spree for Columbus. Olivier followed up with a spectacular breakaway goal at 12:05, thanks to a perfectly timed feed from Cole Sillinger. As Olivier skillfully maneuvered around Markstrom and finished with a backhand shot, the Blue Jackets secured a comfortable 2-0 margin.
With only four minutes remaining, Olivier capped off his remarkable night by scoring into an empty net, just after New Jersey’s Nico Hischier had narrowly missed the opportunity to change the game by hitting the post.
Disallowed Goal and Injury Updates
Notably, an initial goal for the Blue Jackets in the first period was disallowed after a coach’s challenge, which revealed that Miles Wood had interfered with Markstrom’s ability to make a save, negating Danton Heinen’s goal.
On the injury front, the Devils continued to feel the absence of their center Jack Hughes, who has been sidelined with a lower-body injury. His potential return is anticipated for Thursday’s game, though optimism is limited regarding his availability.
Upcoming Matches
As the Blue Jackets prepare to face the Chicago Blackhawks in their upcoming game, the Devils will host the New York Islanders. Both matches precede the Olympic break.
