Mathieu Oliver scored in the third period to end a 182:55 scoreless drought for the Blue Jackets (31-28-8), who have lost four straight and six of seven. Jet Greaves made 18 saves. Despite the loss, Blue Jackets coach Dean Evason was impressed by the performance.

The Devils are playing without injured stars Jack Hughes and Dougie Hamilton, but they’re still capable of putting together dominant stretches of puck possession. They did it sporadically against the Blue Jackets, including a three-goal first period aided by a power play and two fortunate bounces.

The Columbus Blue Jackets and New Jersey Devils play for the third and final time this season. Each team has won a game, so this will be the rubber match.