Adam Fantilli scored three goals to achieve his second career hat trick, leading the Columbus Blue Jackets to a commanding 7-3 victory over the New York Rangers on March 9, 2025. This impressive performance demonstrated Fantilli's growing talent and marked his second hat trick this season, solidifying his position as one of the league's rising stars.
Fantilli's skills were on full display as he netted two goals just 26 seconds apart early in the second period, pushing the Blue Jackets to a 3-1 lead. Columbus, eager to improve their playoff positioning, showcased their scoring depth, with Mathieu Olivier contributing two goals. Both Dante Fabbro and Justin Danforth also found the net, adding to the team’s momentum. The Blue Jackets' explosive offense was complemented by Zach Werenski and Dmitri Voronkov, each delivering two assists.
"Fantilli finished the hat trick with 8:09 remaining," highlighting his fiery performance, the Associated Press reported. Daniil Tarasov was solid in net for Columbus, saving 30 shots and anchoring the team's defense throughout the game.
On the other side, the Rangers struggled to find their rhythm as they faced their third consecutive loss, falling to 0-1-2. Key players Artemi Panarin, Braden Schneider, and Chris Kreider each found the back of the net, but it wasn't enough to counter Columbus's superior performance. Mika Zibanejad provided two assists, but the Rangers' defensive lapses and missed opportunities proved costly.
Braden Schneider and Chris Kreider managed to score short-handed goals 42 seconds apart, tying the game briefly at 3-3, but Columbus responded quickly. Olivier’s second goal came about midway through the third period, awarded after Rangers defenseman Zac Jones inadvertently redirected the rebound of Olivier's shot past his own goalkeeper, Jonathan Quick. Wrapped up with his final goal, Fantilli's dominating performance underscored the rising stakes as the regular season progresses.
The victory holds significance for the Blue Jackets as they moved one point ahead of Ottawa for the first wild card spot in the Eastern Conference. Meanwhile, the Rangers are now one point adrift of the Senators and remain outside of the playoff spots. Upcoming, the Blue Jackets will visit the New Jersey Devils on March 11, 2025, eager to maintain their form. The Rangers will travel to Winnipeg for the kickoff of their three-game road trip.
Overall, the night was pivotal for Columbus, as they stamped their mark on the playoff race, thanks, largely to the powerful display by Adam Fantilli, who continues to impress as one of the league’s top rookie talents. Fans can anticipate thrilling matchups as these teams push toward the postseason.