COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Columbus Blue Jackets ended their five-game losing streak with a 4-2 victory against the New Jersey Devils on Thursday night, thanks in part to Sean Monahan’s impressive performance which included two goals and an assist. Elvis Merzlikins also made a significant contribution by turning away a season-high of 40 shots.

Columbus, despite having only two wins in their last ten outings, saw goals from Ivan Provorov and Zach Werenski alongside Monahan’s contributions. Kirill Marchenko marked his 100th NHL point in the match, adding two assists and extending his point streak to four games. Monahan’s first goal helped push the score to 3-0 in the second period, and he later sealed the game with an empty-net goal with just over a minute remaining.

For the Devils, Luke Hughes contributed with a goal and an assist, and Timo Meier also found the back of the net, while Jake Allen managed 16 saves. New Jersey entered the matchup on a three-game winning streak but struggled to generate enough offense when it mattered most.

The game highlighted the Devils’ aggressive approach, as they unleashed high-quality shots towards Merzlikins throughout the night, although the two goals scored late in the game were ultimately insufficient to change the outcome. Meanwhile, the Blue Jackets, typically known for their sluggish starts, showcased a more dynamic style of play, netting one goal in the first period and two in the second, which allowed them to seize control of the contest. Monahan played a pivotal role in the power play that led to Werenski’s goal midway through the second, then added another goal shortly thereafter. Despite a late offensive push from the Devils, who have seen success with 11 comebacks this season, the Blue Jackets stood firm.

A key moment occurred when the Devils decided to pull Allen from the net with 5:32 remaining in the game. This strategic move paid off temporarily when Meier scored to bring the team within a goal just 1:25 before the end, but Monahan’s empty-netter ultimately closed out the match.

A noteworthy statistic from the game was that defensemen have been instrumental in the Blue Jackets’ scoring efforts this season. Provorov’s goal marked the 22nd tally from a Columbus defenseman, leading all NHL teams. Additionally, Werenski’s assist extended his impressive home point streak to ten games, which ties the franchise record.

Looking ahead, both teams are set to return to the ice on Saturday. The Devils will take on Pittsburgh, while the Blue Jackets head to Philadelphia for their next matchup.