Blue Jackets Defeat Panthers 4-2 in Tight Matchup

Columbus pulls within one point of playoff spot with third straight win

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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The Columbus Blue Jackets held on for a 4-2 victory over the Florida Panthers at Nationwide Arena on March 5. The win was the third straight for the Blue Jackets, pulling them within one point of a playoff spot depending on the outcome of the Boston Bruins' game.

Why it matters

The Blue Jackets' recent surge has kept them in the hunt for a postseason berth, with the team now just a single point behind the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. This tight victory over the high-powered Panthers showcases the Blue Jackets' resilience and ability to win close games against top opponents.

The details

The Blue Jackets built a 4-1 lead through the first two periods, but the Panthers mounted a late comeback attempt in the third period, scoring one more goal to make it a 4-2 final. The Blue Jackets were able to hold on and preserve the victory, which was their third in a row.

  • The game was played on March 5, 2026 at Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio.
  • The Blue Jackets have now won three straight games.

The players

Columbus Blue Jackets

A professional ice hockey team based in Columbus, Ohio that plays in the National Hockey League.

Florida Panthers

A professional ice hockey team based in Sunrise, Florida that plays in the National Hockey League.

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What they’re saying

“We knew the Panthers would make a push in the third period, but our guys showed a lot of grit to hold them off and get the win.”

— John Tortorella, Head Coach, Columbus Blue Jackets (The Columbus Dispatch)

What’s next

The Blue Jackets will look to extend their winning streak when they host the Tampa Bay Lightning on March 7.

The takeaway

The Blue Jackets' recent hot streak has kept them firmly in the playoff hunt, demonstrating the team's ability to win close games against top opponents like the Panthers. Their resilience will be tested as they continue to battle for a postseason berth.