SAN JOSE, Calif. — In a thrilling matchup, Alex Wennberg netted the game-winning goal just over three minutes into overtime, leading the San Jose Sharks to a 2-1 victory against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Tuesday night.


The Sharks celebrated the eagerly-anticipated return of their star player, Macklin Celebrini, who was the first overall pick in the 2024 NHL draft. Celebrini had been sidelined for 12 games due to a hip injury that he first sustained during the preseason and aggravated in the season opener on October 10. Despite his comeback, he did not manage to score in this game and missed an opportunity early in overtime.


Adding to the Sharks’ offense, defenseman Jack Thompson recorded his inaugural career goal in the match. San Jose, which started the evening with the worst record in the league, now boasts a record of 4-8-2 after winning four of their last five games.


In goal, Vitek Vanacek delivered an outstanding performance for the Sharks, turning aside an impressive 49 shots from the Blue Jackets, showcasing his skills and helping the team secure the victory.


On the other side of the ice, the Blue Jackets’ right winger Kirill Marchenko found the net for the second consecutive game, although it wasn’t enough to halt their current losing streak, which has now reached three games. Columbus holds a record of 5-6-1 this season.


The excitement surrounding Macklin Celebrini’s return and the Sharks’ recent upturn in form have buoyed hopes for the team as they look to continue their momentum in the coming games.