Werenski Went Nuclear and the Blue Jackets Just Crushed Seattle's Playoff Hopes
The Seattle Kraken came to Columbus looking to stay hot, but Zach Werenski had other plans. The Blue Jackets defenseman absolutely took over the game with three assists in the first period alone, leading Columbus to a dominant 5-2 victory over Seattle on Saturday night. Yeah, you read that right: three points in one period. That's the kind of performance that gets replayed all week.
Five Different Scorers, One Unstoppable Team
This wasn't a one-man show, though. Five different Blue Jackets found the back of the net, which tells you everything you need to know about how balanced Columbus played. When your offense is that spread out, the other team has no answer. An over-capacity crowd at the home arena was electric, and why wouldn't they be? This kind of performance in the playoff race is exactly what you want to see.
The Streak Lives On
With this win, Columbus pushed their point streak to 12 games. Twelve. That's the kind of consistency that wins playoff races. The Kraken, meanwhile, are watching their own momentum stall with this loss. Seattle needed a different outcome here if they're going to stay in contention, but Werenski and company weren't having it.
For the Emerald City faithful, this one stings. The Kraken brought their best effort to a hostile environment but got outplayed by a team firing on all cylinders. When you're down three goals in the first period, you're chasing the game from there on out, and that's a tough spot against a team as hot as Columbus right now.
The Blue Jackets are making their move at exactly the right time. If they keep playing like this, they're going to be a real problem come playoff time.
🐦 What fans are saying on X
See the latest reactions and highlights from Seattle fans about Blue Jackets.
View X conversation →🔮 Trade Seattle Sports on Kalshi
Did you know you can trade on Seattle sports outcomes on Kalshi, the only federally regulated prediction market in the US? Kalshi is available in Washington state. Bet on Seahawks games, Mariners season outcomes, Kraken playoff runs, and more. No sportsbook account needed.
💰 Limited offer: Get a FREE $10 when you sign up!
👉 Sign up at Kalshi.com and use promo code SEATTLEONTAP to claim your free $10.
This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.