Islanders Edge Blue Jackets in Overtime Thriller

Simon Holmstrom's late goal lifts New York to comeback victory

Mar. 3, 2026 at 1:55am

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The New York Islanders rallied from a 2-0 deficit to defeat the Columbus Blue Jackets 4-3 in overtime on Saturday night. Simon Holmstrom scored the game-winning goal with 3:12 left in the extra period, capping a comeback that saw the Islanders score three unanswered goals in the second period to tie the game.

Why it matters

The Islanders have now won four straight games and remain perfect in overtime this season, improving to 8-0 in games decided in the extra session. The comeback victory also highlights the team's resilience and ability to battle back from early deficits.

The details

After falling behind 2-0 early, the Islanders stormed back with three goals in the second period from Anders Lee, Jean-Gabriel Pageau, and Scott Mayfield to tie the game. Columbus' Adam Fantilli scored late in the period to make it 3-3, but Holmstrom's overtime winner sealed the victory for New York.

  • The game-winning goal was scored with 3:12 left in overtime.
  • The Islanders scored three unanswered goals in the second period over a span of fewer than six minutes.

The players

Simon Holmstrom

The Islanders forward scored the game-winning goal in overtime.

Ilya Sorokin

The Islanders goaltender made 27 saves in the victory.

Isac Lundestrom

The Blue Jackets forward scored the opening goal of the game.

Jet Greaves

The Blue Jackets goaltender recorded 22 saves in the losing effort.

Adam Fantilli

The Blue Jackets rookie forward scored the game-tying goal late in the second period.

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What they’re saying

“We must continue to battle back and find ways to win, even when we fall behind early. This team has shown great resilience all season.”

— Barry Trotz, Islanders Head Coach

What’s next

The Islanders will look to extend their winning streak when they host the Tampa Bay Lightning on Tuesday night.

The takeaway

The Islanders' overtime mastery and ability to mount comebacks have been key factors in their success this season, as they continue to prove they can win in a variety of ways.