### Blue Jackets Surge in Playoff Race with Weekend Sweep of Capitals The Columbus Blue Jackets have made a surprising push for the playoffs, achieving a significant milestone by winning both games in a back-to-back series against the Washington Capitals. This marks the first time this season that the Blue Jackets have won two consecutive games in such a format, showcasing their resilience and determination as they fight for a playoff spot. The victories were highlighted by standout performances from rookie Adam Fantilli and goaltender Jet Greaves, who have become pivotal in keeping the team's playoff hopes alive as the regular season nears its conclusion. *Despite entering the season with low expectations, the Blue Jackets are now just three points behind the Montreal Canadiens for the final wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference* [https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6277367/2025/04/13/blue-jackets-jet-greaves-fantilli-capitals]. ### Breakdown of the Blue Jackets' Recent Success 1. **Key Performers**: - Adam Fantilli scored a total of four goals over the weekend, including two in the crucial 4-1 victory on Sunday [https://www.reuters.com/sports/nhl/blue-jackets-notch-home-and-home-sweep-capitals-2025-04-14]. - Jet Greaves made 29 saves in the same game, marking his third win in four starts since being recalled from the AHL [https://www.local10.com/sports/2025/04/14/fantilli-and-greaves-are-the-latest-contributors-in-keeping-the-blue-jackets-playoff-hopes-going]. 2. **Game Highlights**: - The Blue Jackets defeated the Capitals 7-0 on Saturday, with Greaves earning his first career shutout and Fantilli contributing two goals [https://www.startribune.com/blue-jackets-roll-past-ovechkin-less-capitals-7-0/601329652]. - In the rematch on Sunday, the Blue Jackets came back from an early deficit to secure a 4-1 win, further solidifying their playoff contention [https://www.nhl.com/news/columbus-blue-jackets-washington-capitals-game-recap-april-13]. 3. **Playoff Implications**: - With these victories, the Blue Jackets have extended their winning streak to four games and are now just three points behind the Canadiens for the Eastern Conference's final wild-card spot [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/blue_jackets_notch_home_and_home_sweep_of_capitals/s1_17050_42047814]. - The Capitals, despite their losses, remain a top team in the league, having already clinched a playoff berth and the Presidents' Trophy for the best regular-season record [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/blue_jackets_complete_weekend_sweep_of_capitals_to_stay_in_playoff_race/s1_16448_42047951]. ### Evidence of the Blue Jackets' Momentum - **Recent Performance Metrics**: - **Goals Scored**: 11 goals in two games against the Capitals. - **Goals Against**: Only 1 goal allowed in the second game, showcasing defensive strength. - **Goaltending**: Jet Greaves has a save percentage of approximately 96% over the weekend, indicating exceptional performance [https://www.nhl.com/news/washington-capitals-columbus-blue-jackets-game-recap-april-12]. - **Standings Context**: - The Blue Jackets are currently at 85 points with a record of 38-33-9, while the Canadiens sit at 88 points [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/blue_jackets_notch_home_and_home_sweep_of_capitals/s1_17050_42047814]. ### Conclusion: Blue Jackets' Playoff Aspirations Remain Alive In summary, the Columbus Blue Jackets have demonstrated remarkable resilience and skill, achieving a weekend sweep against the Washington Capitals that keeps their playoff hopes alive. 1. **Key Players**: Adam Fantilli and Jet Greaves have emerged as crucial contributors. 2. **Recent Wins**: The Blue Jackets have shown offensive prowess and defensive solidity. 3. **Playoff Race**: They are now just three points behind the Canadiens, with two games remaining in the season. **The Blue Jackets' unexpected success this season highlights their potential and determination as they aim for a playoff berth against all odds** [https://www.local10.com/sports/2025/04/14/fantilli-and-greaves-are-the-latest-contributors-in-keeping-the-blue-jackets-playoff-hopes-going].