NEWARK, N.J. – The Blue Jackets lost their first game after the Olympic break, 5-2, at New Jersey Thursday night as the Devils went on a rare goal-scoring binge.
The Devils, who had the NHL’s second-fewest goals (135) before the break, lit the lamp three times in the 2:45 span early in the first period against Sergei Bobrovsky in taking the lead for good.
Adam Henrique scored twice, Jaromir Jagr netted the 699th goal of his career. Ryane Clowe also scored and the special teams tallied twice on the power play and once short-handed as the Devils opened the post-Olympic break with a much-needed win if it wants to make the playoffs after missing last season.
Patrik Elias added a goal and two assists and Cory Schneider made 17 saves as New Jersey salvaged the final game of its four-game season series with Columbus (1-2-1).
Artem Anisimov scored for the Blue Jackets and set up one by Marian Gaborik.
The Blue Jackets return home Saturday afternoon to host the Florida Panthers.