Merzlikins’s 37 Saves Lead Blue Jackets to 2-1 Victory over Devils

Boone Jenner and Eric Robinson scored for Columbus, and netminder Elvis Merzlikins made 37 saves to secure a 2-1 win over the New Jersey Devils. The Blue Jackets have now won two consecutive games after a nine-game losing streak, while the Devils have lost six of their last seven games, including their last three. “We’ve seen him since the beginning of the season. He’s been really good for us,” said Blue Jackets coach Pascal Vincent about Merzlikins. “Elvis has been through a lot and it’s good to see the team regrouping around him and playing the right way in front of him.” After 10:04 into the first period, Jenner opened the scoring with a goal, and then Devils forward Alexander Holtz tied it at 13:15. Robinson followed up with a goal at 19:23 to secure the win for Columbus. New Jersey had several opportunities, including two power-play chances, but were unable to capitalize. The Devils will look to bounce back when they host the Buffalo Sabres, while the Blue Jackets will visit the Carolina Hurricanes.