COLUMBUS, Ohio – In a clash defined by resilience and special teams, the Columbus Blue Jackets opened their four-game homestand with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over the Nashville Predators on Tuesday night. Damon Severson delivered the decisive blow, breaking a third-period deadlock to keep the momentum swinging in favor of the home team.
Severson Breaks the Tie
The game reached its climax at the 6:07 mark of the third period. Severson unleashed a snap shot from the point that threaded through heavy traffic, beating Nashville goaltender Justus Annunen. The goal stood after a coaching challenge from Nashville for goaltender interference was overturned, confirming that Charlie Coyle did not impair Annunen’s ability to make the save.
How the Predators vs Blue Jackets Matchup Unfolded
The blue jackets started the game with high energy despite playing the second half of a back-to-back. Adam Fantilli and Sean Monahan provided the early offensive spark for Columbus. Monahan’s goal was particularly impressive—a short-handed tally at 1:52 of the third period that leveled the score at 2-2 and set the stage for Severson’s game-winner.
Nashville didn’t go down without a fight. Filip Forsberg found the back of the net on a power play, and veteran Ryan O’Reilly was credited with a second-period goal. However, the Predators struggled to capitalize further, and O’Reilly’s night was cut short after he sustained a cut below his eye during a late faceoff.
Greaves Weathers the Storm
Goalie Jet Greaves was a standout for the columbus blue jackets, making 20 saves. His night included a brief exit for concussion protocol in the first period after a collision with Nick Blankenburg. Elvis Merzlikins stepped in briefly, stopping both shots he faced, before Greaves returned to anchor the win.
Roster Moves and Looking Ahead
Before the puck drop, the Predators made headlines by trading center Michael McCarron to the Minnesota Wild in exchange for a 2028 second-round pick, signaling a shift in their roster strategy as the trade deadline nears.
What’s Next:
- The Columbus Blue Jackets will look to extend their winning streak as they host the Florida Panthers this Thursday.
- The Nashville Predators return home to face the Boston Bruins on Thursday night.

