Islanders Extend Win Streak to Four, Defeat Blue Jackets in Overtime
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Simon Holmstrom scored at 1:47 of overtime, lifting the New York Islanders to a 4-3 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena on Saturday, February 28, 2026. The win marks the Islanders’ fourth consecutive victory and extends their undefeated streak in overtime games this season.
Islanders Rally from Two-Goal Deficit
The Islanders overcame a two-goal deficit, showcasing resilience and composure. Holmstrom’s game-winning goal came off a stretch pass from Tony DeAngelo, as he cut towards the net and scored past Columbus goaltender Jet Greaves.
“I think we did a great job of processing the puck before that and then waiting for the right moment, not giving the puck up and we found it and were able to position it in,” Holmstrom said.
Overtime Prowess
New York has now won all eight of its overtime games this season, including a 4-3 victory against the Montreal Canadiens on Thursday, where they also trailed 2-0.
“I feel like we’re calm and we just focus on what needs to be done and it doesn’t matter if we’re behind,” New York coach Patrick Roy stated.
Key Performances
Scott Mayfield and Jean-Gabriel Pageau each contributed a goal and an assist for the Islanders. Mathew Barzal added two assists, and Ilya Sorokin made 27 saves. For the Blue Jackets, Zach Werenski recorded two assists, extending his points streak to nine games, the longest run by a defenseman in franchise history. Jet Greaves stopped 22 shots.
Blue Jackets Fall Short
Columbus, which had previously enjoyed a seven-game winning streak, has now lost two consecutive games. They lost 4-2 at the Boston Bruins on Thursday.
“Both games we probably deserved four points and we came away with one against two teams we’re chasing, and we only have 24 games left now,” Werenski said. “So, extremely disappointing. But in saying that, we’ve got a lot of hockey left and we’re still in it, so we’ll move on to the (New York) Rangers on Monday.”
First Period Action
Isac Lundeström gave the Blue Jackets an early 1-0 lead at 2:30 of the first period. Mason Marchment and Adam Fantilli also scored for Columbus.
Game Details
- Final Score: New York Islanders 4, Columbus Blue Jackets 3 (OT)
- Date: February 28, 2026
- Location: Nationwide Arena, Columbus, Ohio
- Goalie: Ilya Sorokin (NYI), Jet Greaves (CBJ)
The Islanders (34-21-5) now lead the Blue Jackets (29-21-8) by seven points in the Metropolitan Division standings.