Islanders Defeat Blue Jackets 3-1, Horvat Shines

The New York Islanders defeated the Columbus Blue Jackets 3-1 on January 20, with Bo Horvat scoring two goals during a dominant second period. Mathew Barzal contributed with two assists, while Simon Holmstrom added another goal, marking the first time the Islanders scored both a power-play and a short-handed goal in a game since December 2023. The Islanders outplayed the Blue Jackets, who had their seven-game point streak snapped, struggling with turnovers and defensive coverage. Kent Johnson scored the lone goal for Columbus in the first period, capitalizing on a power play. Ilya Sorokin made 25 saves, leading to the Islanders' second consecutive win at home, improving their record to 19-20-7. The victory also showcased the team's improved play under new coach Patrick Roy, who replaced Lane Lambert earlier in January.