COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Columbus Blue Jackets did the Detroit Red Wings a favor and rallied.
The Wings had a three-goal cushion early in the second period Tuesday at Nationwide Arena, but the Blue Jackets, who needed the points in their effort to clinch a playoff spot, besieged goalie Jimmy Howard and tied the game with 2:16 to go in regulation.
The Wings then fell, 5-4, in overtime. Henrik Zetterberg had three assists, and the Wings converted on two power plays for the first time since Dec. 20.
The Blue Jackets narrowed the lead to one goal midway through the third period, and Artemi Panarin made it 4-4 on a late power-play goal, Columbus’ third conversion of the game.