The Columbus Blue Jackets continued their strong run with a 5-2 win over the Seattle Kraken on Saturday night. A three-goal first period set the tone and helped Columbus extend its point streak to 12 games.
Columbus controlled the game early and built a lead that it never gave up. The Blue Jackets showed balance across their lineup and created steady pressure in the offensive zone. Seattle responded at times but could not overcome the early deficit.
The win marked Columbus’s fourth in a row and reinforced its position as one of the league’s most consistent teams in recent weeks. Seattle, meanwhile, dropped its third straight and slipped further in the Western Conference playoff race.
Fast Start Drives Columbus
Columbus established control within the opening minutes. Danton Heinen scored just 2:48 into the game, finishing a quick sequence that caught Seattle off guard. The early goal gave the Blue Jackets momentum and allowed them to dictate the pace.
Damon Severson extended the lead midway through the period. He fired a shot from the left circle at 8:58, making it 2-0. The goal also marked a milestone for Columbus, as its defensemen have now combined for a franchise-record 52 goals this season.
Mathieu Olivier added a third goal at 15:16, finishing another sustained offensive shift. Columbus capitalized on defensive breakdowns and created space around the net. The three-goal burst gave the Blue Jackets a firm grip on the game before the first intermission.
Seattle managed to respond late in the period. Vince Dunn scored to cut the deficit to 3-1, providing a spark heading into the second period.
Kraken Push Back In Second Period
Seattle showed more urgency in the second period and began to generate better scoring chances. Kaapo Kakko brought the Kraken within one goal with a power-play tally at 8:31. The goal came from a well-executed sequence and shifted momentum briefly in Seattle’s favor.
However, Columbus responded quickly. Kent Johnson scored just over a minute later, ending a 12-game goal drought and restoring a two-goal lead. The quick answer prevented Seattle from building sustained pressure.
Adam Fantilli recorded an assist on Johnson’s goal, extending his point streak to six games. His continued production has added depth to Columbus’ offense during this stretch.
Despite Seattle’s improved play in the middle period, the Blue Jackets maintained control through timely scoring and solid defensive structure.
Balanced Attack And Key Performances
Columbus relied on contributions from multiple players. Cole Sillinger played a key role with a goal and two assists. He created chances throughout the game and helped maintain offensive pressure.
Zach Werenski also stood out with three assists, all coming in the first period. His ability to move the puck and support the attack helped Columbus build its early lead.
Elvis Merzlikins made 15 saves and provided steady goaltending. While he faced fewer shots than his counterpart, he made key stops when Seattle pushed forward.
For the Kraken, Kakko led the offense with a goal and an assist. Dunn added a goal from the blue line, but the team struggled to generate consistent scoring beyond those efforts.
Joey Daccord made 23 saves for Seattle but faced sustained pressure, particularly in the first period.
Seattle Falls Behind In Playoff Race
Seattle’s recent struggles have impacted its position in the standings. The loss leaves the Kraken two points behind Nashville for the final wild-card spot in the Western Conference.
The team has shown flashes of strong play but has not maintained consistency. Defensive lapses and slow starts have contributed to the recent skid.
Injuries have also affected the lineup. Eeli Tolvanen returned to action after missing two games with an upper-body injury and recorded an assist. Jared McCann, however, was a late scratch due to a lower-body issue.
The Kraken will need more complete performances to remain in the playoff race. Improved starts and tighter defensive play will be key in upcoming games.
Columbus Builds Momentum
Columbus continues to build momentum at a critical point in the season. The 12-game point streak reflects consistent execution and strong team play across all areas.
The Blue Jackets have found a balance between offensive production and defensive discipline. Their ability to score early and respond quickly to opposing goals has helped sustain their run.
With multiple players contributing and strong performances from key leaders, Columbus has positioned itself well heading into the final stretch of the season.
Up Next
Seattle travels to Florida for its next game, looking to end its losing streak. Columbus visits the New York Islanders, aiming to extend its point streak and maintain its current form.
