Sharks Edge Blue Jackets With Late Chernyshov Winner

San Jose snaps six-game skid, keeps playoff hopes alive with narrow victory in Columbus

Mar. 29, 2026 at 12:18am

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Igor Chernyshov scored the game-winning goal with 1:25 remaining in the third period to lift the San Jose Sharks to a 3-2 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets. Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith assisted on the decisive tally, helping the Sharks (33-31-7, 73 points) snap a six-game losing streak and stay in contention for a Western Conference wild card spot. Denton Mateychuk and Cole Sillinger scored for the Blue Jackets (38-24-11, 87 points), who remain strong contenders for an Eastern Conference wild-card berth despite the loss.

Why it matters

This tight, back-and-forth game between two teams fighting for playoff positioning in their respective conferences underscores the intensity and importance of the late-season NHL playoff race. The Sharks' narrow victory over the Blue Jackets could prove crucial as both teams jockey for wild card spots in the final weeks of the regular season.

The details

Chernyshov scored twice for the Sharks, including the game-winner with just 1:25 left in regulation. Celebrini tied the game early in the third period with a power-play goal, while Smith recorded two assists. For the Blue Jackets, Mateychuk opened the scoring just 31 seconds into the game, and Sillinger put Columbus back in front in the second period before the Sharks rallied late.

  • The game was played on March 28, 2026.
  • Mateychuk scored 31 seconds into the first period.
  • Chernyshov tied the game at 1-1 in the first period.
  • Sillinger gave the Blue Jackets a 2-1 lead in the second period.
  • Celebrini tied the game 2-2 early in the third period.
  • Chernyshov scored the game-winning goal with 1:25 left in regulation.

The players

Igor Chernyshov

A forward for the San Jose Sharks who scored two goals, including the game-winner, in the victory over the Blue Jackets.

Macklin Celebrini

A forward for the San Jose Sharks who scored the game-tying goal in the third period and assisted on the game-winning tally.

Will Smith

A forward for the San Jose Sharks who recorded two assists in the victory.

Denton Mateychuk

A defenseman for the Columbus Blue Jackets who opened the scoring just 31 seconds into the game.

Cole Sillinger

A forward for the Columbus Blue Jackets who scored the team's second goal to give them a 2-1 lead in the second period.

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What they’re saying

“We knew this was a big game for our playoff hopes, so it was great to see the guys battle back and get the win in the end.”

— David Quinn, Head Coach, San Jose Sharks

“It's tough to lose a close one like that, but we'll regroup and get ready for the next one. We're still in a good position, and these late-season games are only going to get more intense.”

— Brad Larsen, Head Coach, Columbus Blue Jackets

What’s next

The Sharks will look to build on this win as they continue their push for a playoff spot, with key games against divisional rivals coming up. The Blue Jackets will aim to bounce back and maintain their position in the Eastern Conference wild card race.

The takeaway

This thrilling late-season matchup between the Sharks and Blue Jackets showcased the high stakes and intensity of the NHL playoff race, with both teams fighting to keep their postseason dreams alive. The Sharks' narrow victory, sealed by Chernyshov's clutch goal, could prove pivotal as the final weeks of the regular season unfold.