A thrilling NHL game between the Blue Jackets and the Calgary Flames on January 13, 2026, had fans on the edge of their seats. The final score? Blue Jackets 5, Flames 3. But here's where it gets interesting...
The Blue Jackets' Captain Delivers
Boone Jenner, the captain of the Blue Jackets, stepped up big time. With just 1:34 left on the clock, he scored his eighth goal of the season, a powerful snap shot that left the Flames' goalie, Dustin Wolf, with no chance. Jenner's performance wasn't just about the goal; he also picked up an assist and even dropped the gloves in a second-period fight, earning himself a Gordie Howe hat trick.
A New Coach, A New Era
Rick Bowness made his debut as the Blue Jackets' head coach, taking over after Dean Evason became the first NHL coach to be fired this season. At 70 years old, Bowness is the oldest coach in the league. His first game didn't disappoint, with the Blue Jackets putting on an impressive display.
Defensemen Dominance
Zach Werenski, the NHL's leading goal-scoring defenseman, continued his hot streak. He picked up a goal and an assist, extending his point streak to 16 straight home games, which is the second-longest in franchise history. Werenski's goal in the third period gave the Blue Jackets a crucial 3-2 lead, and it was a beauty - a snap shot from the top of the left faceoff circle.
Quick Start, Quick Goal
Dante Fabbro got the Blue Jackets off to a flying start, scoring just 3:57 into the first period. His goal was the second-fastest scored by a team in their first game with a new coach this season. Only the Seattle Kraken beat that record, scoring just 2:21 into their game with Lane Lambert.
Flames Fight Back
The Flames weren't going down without a fight. Mikael Backlund and Morgan Frost each had a goal and an assist, while Rasmus Anderson and Connor Zary also found the back of the net. Yegor Sharangovich chipped in with two assists, and Dustin Wolf made 38 saves.
Power Play Woes for the Blue Jackets
The Flames' power play unit was on fire, converting on all three of their opportunities. This is the third time this season that the Blue Jackets have allowed at least three power-play goals, which is a concern for a team with a penalty-killing unit ranked fourth-worst in the league.
So, what do you think? Are the Blue Jackets turning a corner under their new coach, or was this just a flash in the pan? And how will the Flames respond to their power play success? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
