The playoff race in the Eastern Conference gets more intense as the Columbus Blue Jackets host the New York Islanders at Nationwide Arena. Both teams are fighting for crucial points, and this matchup could directly impact their postseason chances. Columbus enter the game with strong attacking momentum despite their recent loss, while the Islanders rely on structure, discipline, and elite goaltending to stay competitive. With both teams already sharing wins this season, this third meeting promises to be a tight and high-pressure contest.
Match Details
| Match | New York Islanders vs Columbus Blue Jackets |
|---|---|
| Date | February 28, 2026 |
| Time | 6:00 PM ET |
| Venue | Nationwide Arena, Columbus |
| Broadcast | ESPN+ |
Team Standings Snapshot
| Team | Points | Conference Position | Goal Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York Islanders | 71 | 8th East | 173-165 |
| Columbus Blue Jackets | 65 | 10th East | 181-181 |
This game is important because a win for the Islanders would increase their gap, while a Columbus victory would keep them firmly in the playoff race.
Head-to-Head Record
- Teams have split the season series so far.
- Islanders lead overall meetings: 27 wins to 21.
- Columbus have scored 2+ goals in 7 of the last 8 H2H games.
- Most recent meeting: Columbus won 4-2 (Dec 29, 2025).
These matchups are usually close and physical, with neither side holding a clear advantage.
Columbus Blue Jackets Form & Team Analysis
Columbus recently enjoyed a seven-game winning streak, scoring 30 goals during that stretch. Their aggressive attacking style includes heavy shooting, active defensemen, and strong second-chance opportunities.
Recent results:
- Lost to Boston 4-2
- Beat Chicago 4-0
- Beat New Jersey 3-0
- Beat St. Louis 5-3
Key Trend:
When Columbus score 3 or more goals, their record is 27-4-5.
Key Players – Columbus
| Player | Last 5 Games |
|---|---|
| Kirill Marchenko | 6 points |
| Zach Werenski | 6 points |
| Charlie Coyle | 7 points |
| Adam Fantilli | Key offensive support |
Goaltender
- Jet Greaves – 2.62 GAA, 91% save percentage
His steady performances have been a major reason for their recent success.
New York Islanders Form & Team Analysis
The Islanders hold a playoff position but have been inconsistent. They have 3 wins in their last 5 games, with two coming in overtime, showing their ability to stay competitive in tight situations.
Recent results:
- Beat Montreal 4-3 (OT)
- Beat New Jersey 3-1
- Beat Pittsburgh 5-4
- Lost to Washington 4-1
Key Trend:
Islanders have scored 3+ goals in four of their last five games.
Key Players – Islanders
| Player | Recent Form |
|---|---|
| Mathew Barzal | 8 points in last 5 |
| Bo Horvat | 6 points |
| Matthew Schaefer | Strong offensive impact from defense |
Goaltender
- Ilya Sorokin – 2.44 GAA, 91.6% save percentage
Sorokin’s ability to steal games remains the Islanders’ biggest strength.
Team Stats Comparison
| Category | Blue Jackets | Islanders |
|---|---|---|
| Goals per Game | 3.09 | 2.86 |
| Goals Allowed | 3.16 | 2.71 |
| Shots per Game | 29.7 | 27.4 |
| Power Play % | 19.6% | 16.1% |
| Penalty Kill % | 77.2% | 81.5% |
Columbus have the better offense, while the Islanders are stronger defensively.
Last 10 Games Trend
| Team | Record | Goals Scored | Goals Allowed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Jackets | Mixed form after hot streak | High scoring | Defense average |
| Islanders | 6-4-0 | 28 | 25 |
Both teams are trending toward close, competitive games.
Player Props to Watch
- Kirill Marchenko – Point potential in strong offensive system
- Charlie Coyle – Consistent scoring presence
- Bo Horvat – High shot volume
- Mathew Barzal – Primary playmaker
- Cal Ritchie – Emerging offensive threat
Key Match Factors
- Columbus home form: 4 wins in last 5 home games
- Islanders strength: Defensive structure and Sorokin
- Playoff pressure: One of the biggest regular-season games for both teams
- Both teams average around 5.9 combined goals per game
Best Betting Picks
| Market | Pick |
|---|---|
| Moneyline | Blue Jackets to win |
| Total Goals | Over 5.5 / Over 6 |
| Spread | Islanders +1.5 |
| Team Total | Columbus Over 2.5 goals |
Score Prediction:
Blue Jackets 4 – Islanders 3
This matchup comes down to momentum versus structure. Columbus are playing aggressive, attacking hockey and have been strong at home, especially when they score early. The Islanders will try to slow the game and rely on Sorokin and their top players to make the difference.
However, with their current offensive rhythm and the urgency of the playoff race, Columbus have a slight edge. Expect a close, high-intensity game with goals at both ends and another tight finish.
