Sorokin's Shutout Lifts Islanders Past Blue Jackets

Goaltender makes 26 saves as New York moves back into playoff position

Mar. 23, 2026 at 2:20am

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Ilya Sorokin made 26 saves for his NHL-leading seventh shutout of the season, and Bo Horvat scored the only goal as the New York Islanders defeated the Columbus Blue Jackets 1-0 on Sunday night. The win moved the Islanders back into a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

Why it matters

The Islanders had briefly fallen out of a playoff position after a two-game skid, so this victory was crucial to keep them in the hunt. Sorokin's stellar goaltending has been a major factor in the Islanders' success this season.

The details

Horvat scored the game's lone goal just 1:25 into the first period, taking a pass from Anders Lee and beating Columbus goaltender Jet Greaves with a snap shot. Sorokin was dominant in net, making 13 saves in the third period to preserve the shutout. The Islanders' victory was nearly spoiled when a late goal by Lee was overturned on a coach's challenge, but Sorokin and the defense held on for the win.

  • The game was played on Sunday, March 23, 2026.
  • Horvat scored the opening goal just 1:25 into the first period.

The players

Ilya Sorokin

The Islanders' starting goaltender, who made 26 saves for his NHL-leading seventh shutout of the season.

Bo Horvat

The Islanders' forward who scored the game's only goal in the first period.

Anders Lee

The Islanders' captain who assisted on Horvat's goal and had a late goal overturned on a coach's challenge.

Jet Greaves

The Blue Jackets' goaltender who made 21 saves in the loss.

Rick Bowness

The Blue Jackets' head coach who successfully challenged the Islanders' late goal.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

The takeaway

This game highlighted the importance of strong goaltending and timely scoring, as the Islanders were able to grind out a crucial victory over a hot Columbus team to maintain their playoff position in the Eastern Conference.