Adam Fantilli's Hat Trick Propels Blue Jackets Past Rangers in Key Playoff Race

Columbus secures a pivotal 7-3 victory over New York, moving into the first Eastern Conference wild-card spot.

Adam Fantilli recorded his second career hat trick, scoring three goals to lead the Blue Jackets to a decisive win at Madison Square Garden.
Columbus jumped into the first Eastern Conference wild-card spot with 70 points, surpassing the Ottawa Senators by one point.
Mathieu Olivier contributed two goals, including one redirected off a Rangers defender, marking his first goals since signing a six-year contract extension.
The Rangers, now on a three-game losing streak, remain one point outside the playoff picture and missed another chance to climb the standings.
Artemi Panarin extended his goal-scoring streak to five games for New York, but the team struggled defensively, allowing seven goals on 27 shots.