NEWARK, N.J. — The Columbus Blue Jackets extended their winning streak to six games with a decisive 3-0 victory over the New Jersey Devils on Tuesday night. Elvis Merzlikins secured his first shutout of the season, stopping all 23 shots he faced.
Blue Jackets Secure Sixth Straight Win
Mathieu Olivier led the Blue Jackets’ offense with two goals in the third period. Dante Fabbro also found the back of the net, marking his first game back after a six-game absence due to a lower-body injury.
Olivier’s first goal came on a breakaway at 12:05 of the third, assisted by Cole Sillinger. He later added an empty-net goal with four minutes remaining. Prior to Olivier’s goals, Fabbro broke a scoreless tie at 5:24 of the third period with a wrist shot.
Early in the game, a goal by Danton Heinen was disallowed after a coach’s challenge revealed that his teammate, Miles Wood – a former Devil – had interfered with New Jersey’s goaltender, Jakob Markstrom, preventing him from making a save.
Jakob Markstrom made 22 saves for the Devils, who were without center Jack Hughes due to a lower-body injury. The Devils have indicated Hughes’ return on Thursday is unlikely.
Looking Ahead
The Blue Jackets will conclude their schedule before the Olympic break with a home game against the Chicago Blackhawks on Wednesday. The Devils will host the New York Islanders on Thursday, also their final game before the break.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the game?
The final score was Columbus Blue Jackets 3, New Jersey Devils 0.
Who scored the goals for the Blue Jackets?
Mathieu Olivier scored twice, and Dante Fabbro scored once for the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Is Jack Hughes expected to play in the Devils’ next game?
Jack Hughes is currently out with a lower-body injury, and the Devils are not optimistic about his return for Thursday’s game against the Islanders.
How important are these games before the Olympic break for teams to build momentum?
