Werenski Shines as Blue Jackets Defeat Blackhawks 5-1

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Zach Werenski extended his remarkable home point streak to 22 games, leading the Columbus Blue Jackets to a 5-1 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks on Saturday at Nationwide Arena. Werenski scored a goal and recorded two assists, contributing to the Blue Jackets’ much-needed win after a four-game losing streak.

During the game, Werenski matched the impressive third-longest point streak by a defenseman in NHL history, tying Phil Housley (1991-92) with 22 games. The record is held by Bobby Orr, who had a 25-game streak in 1974-75. “A lot of energy mentally the last couple of weeks,” said Werenski. “So, I slept good last night. I napped hard today.”

Columbus goaltender Elvis Merzlikins made 27 saves, allowing only one goal from the Blackhawks. The Blue Jackets improved their record to 27-22-8, while Chicago’s struggles continued, falling to 17-32-7 with just one win in their last six games (1-3-2).

Kent Johnson was also a key contributor for Columbus, scoring two goals in the game. Johnson opened the scoring with a wrist shot just 4:10 into the first period and doubled the lead with a power-play goal early in the second period. “I think we can still get going and get back into our game and be better, but it obviously feels nice when the puck is going,” Johnson remarked.

The Blackhawks briefly responded when Craig Smith redirected a shot from defenseman Marc-Edouard Vlasic, cutting the deficit to 2-1. However, Columbus quickly regained momentum as Denton Mateychuk restored a two-goal lead by scoring at 12:42 of the second period.

Werenski sealed the game with a breakaway goal late in the third period, pushing the score to 4-1. Coach Dean Evason praised Werenski’s performance, stating, “Impressed? 100 percent. Shocked? No. He’s just such an incredible athlete.”

Adam Fantilli capped the scoring for Columbus at 14:44, further solidifying the dominance of the Blue Jackets. Merzlikins made crucial saves during the latter stages of the game to maintain the advantage. “In the third we made a push, (Merzlikins) made some big saves when it was 3-1 and then they come right back,” said interim Blackhawks coach Anders Sorensen. “They get the fourth one and the wind took out of our sails a little.”

The Blue Jackets welcomed back captain Boone Jenner, who made his season debut after shoulder surgery. Jenner contributed an assist, reflecting the team’s recovery from injuries as they strive for a playoff position.

Next, the Blue Jackets will host the Dallas Stars on Tuesday, while the Blackhawks will look to regroup against the Toronto Maple Leafs.