Here’s a bold statement: the New York Islanders are rewriting the script on comebacks this season, and their latest overtime thriller is a perfect example. But here’s where it gets controversial—is their success in OT a testament to their resilience, or are they simply getting lucky? Let’s dive in.
On March 1, 2026, the Islanders staged yet another dramatic rally, this time against the Columbus Blue Jackets, securing a 4-3 overtime win at Nationwide Arena. Simon Holmstrom emerged as the hero, scoring just 1:47 into the extra frame. His goal wasn’t just a fluke—it was the result of a perfectly executed play. Holmstrom received a stretch pass from Tony DeAngelo, cut to the net, and deftly slipped the puck past Jet Greaves’ outstretched skate. And this is the part most people miss—Holmstrom credited the team’s patience and puck control for setting up the winning moment, a strategy that’s become a hallmark of their OT success.
The Islanders’ ability to stay calm under pressure is nothing short of remarkable. They’ve now won all eight of their overtime games this season, including a similar 4-3 comeback against the Montreal Canadiens just two days prior. When asked about their composure, coach Patrick Roy simply stated, ‘I feel like we’re calm and we just focus on what needs to be done.’ But is this calmness a product of experience, or is there something more to their OT dominance? It’s a question worth debating.
Scott Mayfield and Jean-Gabriel Pageau each contributed a goal and an assist, while Mathew Barzal continued his hot streak with two assists. Ilya Sorokin made 27 saves, backstopping the Islanders to their fourth consecutive win. On the other side, Zach Werenski extended his career-high point streak to nine games, though the Blue Jackets couldn’t capitalize on their early 2-0 lead.
Speaking of that lead, Columbus had every opportunity to put the game away. Isac Lundestrom and Mason Marchment gave the Blue Jackets a comfortable cushion, but Sorokin’s stellar goaltending kept the Islanders within striking distance. ‘When you get a chance to make it 3-0, and we had enough chances to do that, that eventually will bite you,’ said Columbus coach Rick Bowness. Here’s a thought-provoking question—did the Blue Jackets lose the game, or did the Islanders steal it?
New York’s turning point came in the second period when Anders Lee and Pageau scored just 22 seconds apart, shifting the momentum entirely. Mayfield’s deflected shot gave the Islanders their first lead, but Adam Fantilli tied it late in the third, forcing overtime. Holmstrom’s winner sealed the deal, but not without leaving fans and analysts alike scratching their heads.
Bold interpretation alert—while the Islanders’ OT success is impressive, it might also highlight a vulnerability in their 60-minute game. Are they relying too heavily on late-game heroics? Or is this just the mark of a championship-caliber team? Weigh in below—do you think the Islanders’ OT streak is sustainable, or is it a ticking time bomb?
Before we go, a few noteworthy mentions: the game honored four 2026 Olympians, including Zach Werenski, whose gold medal-winning assist for Team USA was replayed to a standing ovation. Also, Mathew Barzal extended his point streak to six games, and Mason Marchment continued his torrid pace since joining the Blue Jackets. One last teaser—with just 24 games left in the season, can Columbus rebound from this disappointing loss, or will their playoff hopes slip away? Let the debate begin!
