Recap
3 min read

Columbus Blue Jackets Stumble as Ottawa Senators Capitalize on Key Moments

The Columbus Blue Jackets faced a challenging encounter against the Ottawa Senators at Nationwide Arena, resulting in a 4-1 loss. This outcome brought the Blue Jackets' record to 22-20-7, while the Senators improved to 23-19-7. Despite a strong start with an early goal by Sean Monahan, the Jackets were unable to maintain their momentum throughout the game.


Jan 20, 2026; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets center Charlie Coyle (3) drags the puck as Ottawa Senators defenseman Thomas Chabot (72) defnds during the second period at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Russell LaBounty-Imagn Images

First Period


The opening period saw Columbus take an early lead with Sean Monahan finding the net. His goal was assisted by Kent Johnson and Boone Jenner, showcasing their offensive synergy. However, this was short-lived as Ottawa's Tim Stutzle responded quickly with a goal of his own, leveling the score and setting up an intense battle for dominance.


Second Period


As both teams entered the second period tied at 1-1, defensive strategies took center stage. The Blue Jackets struggled to capitalize on powerplay opportunities despite having three chances during this period. Their inability to convert these opportunities into goals highlighted their ongoing powerplay challenges.


Jan 20, 2026; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets goalie Elvis Merzlikins (90) makes a glove save against the Ottawa Senators during the first period at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Russell LaBounty-Imagn Images

Third Period


The third period proved decisive for Ottawa as they scored two crucial goals that sealed their victory over Columbus. The Senators' James Reimer played a pivotal role in maintaining their lead with impressive goaltending skills that thwarted multiple attempts from CBJ forwards like Zach Aston-Reese and Kirill Marchenko.


In analyzing this Columbus Blue Jackets vs Ottawa Senators match summary, it becomes evident that key moments defined each team's performance. The game-changing plays Columbus Blue Jackets vs Ottawa Senators included critical saves by Reimer and timely goals from Stutzle which shifted momentum in favor of Ottawa.


Jan 20, 2026; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Ottawa Senators defenseman Tyler Kleven (43) celebrates his goal against the Columbus Blue Jackets during the first period at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Russell LaBounty-Imagn Images

Looking ahead, fans can catch the next home game when CBJ hosts Dallas Stars at Nationwide Arena on January 22nd at 7:00 PM EST. Tune into ESPN+, Victory+, or FDSOH for live coverage of what promises to be another exciting matchup for hockey enthusiasts.


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