Olivier’s first goal was a highlight-reel breakaway. Cole Sillinger sprung him behind the Devils’ defensemen, and he deked one way and went to his backhand, getting the puck past Jakob Markstrom at 12:05 of the third period to put the Blue Jackets up 2-0. He added an empty-netter with 4 minutes left, shortly after New Jersey’s Nico Hischer hit the post.
Fabbro snapped a wrister from the top of the left circle past Markstrom 5:24 into the third period, breaking a scoreless tie with his fourth of the season.
A first-period goal was disallowed. Danton Heinen scored, but his linemate, Miles Wood — who was drafted by the Devils and spent most of his career in New Jersey — had crashed Markstrom’s crease, taking away his ability to defend it. The goal was taken off the board after a coach’s challenge.
Markstrom made 22 saves.
New Jersey center Jack Hughes was once again out with a lower-body injury. He could return Thursday, but the Devils aren’t optimistic.
Up next
Blue Jackets: Host Chicago on Wednesday night in their final game before the Olympic break.
Devils: Host the Islanders on Thursday night, also their final game before the Olympic break.
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AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/nhl