Werenski's Shootout Goal Lifts Blue Jackets Over Red Wings

Columbus ends six-game losing streak with 4-3 victory in Detroit

Apr. 8, 2026 at 3:41am

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An abstract, energetic painting featuring rapid brushstrokes and neon colors that capture the dynamic motion and raw emotion of a hockey shootout, with the puck and players' forms blending together in an expressionistic style.Zach Werenski's game-winning shootout goal sparks a burst of celebratory energy for the Columbus Blue Jackets.Columbus Today

Defenseman Zach Werenski scored the decisive goal in the shootout to lead the Columbus Blue Jackets to a 4-3 victory over the Detroit Red Wings on Tuesday night, ending the Blue Jackets' six-game losing streak.

Why it matters

The Blue Jackets have struggled mightily this season, sitting near the bottom of the NHL standings. This win could provide a much-needed boost of confidence as they look to finish the season strong and build momentum for next year.

The details

After the game was tied 3-3 at the end of regulation, Werenski scored the only goal in the shootout to give Columbus the victory. Rookie forward Adam Fantilli tied the game for the Blue Jackets with just 17 seconds remaining in the third period, while Danton Heinen also scored in regulation for Columbus.

  • The game was played on Tuesday, April 8, 2026.

The players

Zach Werenski

A defenseman for the Columbus Blue Jackets who scored the game-winning goal in the shootout.

Adam Fantilli

A rookie forward for the Columbus Blue Jackets who scored the game-tying goal with 17 seconds left in regulation.

Danton Heinen

A forward for the Columbus Blue Jackets who scored a goal in regulation.

Detroit Red Wings

The opposing team that lost to the Columbus Blue Jackets in the shootout.

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What they’re saying

“It was a big win for us to end that skid. The guys battled hard and never gave up, and that's what we need to see more of down the stretch.”

— Zach Werenski, Defenseman, Columbus Blue Jackets

What’s next

The Blue Jackets will look to build on this win as they continue their push to climb up the standings in the final weeks of the regular season.

The takeaway

This shootout victory could provide a much-needed morale boost for the struggling Blue Jackets, who have endured a difficult season but showed resilience in battling back to earn the two points.