Charlie Coyle’s two-point night lifts Blue Jackets past Blackhawks 4-2 in Chicago Friday

Blue Jackets extend strong run as Coyle contributes goal and assist

CHICAGO — Charlie Coyle scored a goal and added an assist as the Columbus Blue Jackets defeated the Chicago Blackhawks 4-2 at the United Center on Friday, January 30, 2026. The result improved Columbus to 26-20-7, while Chicago fell to 21-25-9.

Columbus built control through sustained puck pressure and timely finishing, turning a close opening period into a two-goal advantage after 40 minutes. The Blue Jackets also received steady goaltending from Elvis Merzlikins, who stopped 22 of 24 shots.

Game flow: even early, Columbus separates in the middle frame

The teams were level after the first period, with each side scoring once. Columbus then produced two goals in the second period to take a 3-2 lead into the third. The Blue Jackets added one more in the final period while keeping Chicago scoreless over the last 20 minutes.

Coyle’s points came as part of a balanced Columbus attack that again leaned on depth scoring. He has been a regular feature in Columbus’ recent surge and entered the Chicago matchup coming off a milestone week that included recognition for reaching 1,000 NHL games.

Context: Columbus continues climb under new leadership

The win fit a broader midseason swing for the Blue Jackets. Since a coaching change on January 12, 2026, Columbus has posted one of the NHL’s stronger short-run records and improved its scoring rate while tightening defensive results. That combination has moved the club back into a competitive position in the Metropolitan Division race after spending earlier stretches near the bottom of the Eastern Conference.

Chicago’s challenge: converting possession into offense

For Chicago, the loss added to a difficult stretch that has included inconsistent five-on-five scoring and the need to protect leads late in games. Connor Bedard remained a key offensive driver, but the Blackhawks were held to 24 shots and did not score in the third period, limiting their ability to force a final push.

Key verified numbers

• Final score: Blue Jackets 4, Blackhawks 2 (January 30, 2026, United Center).
• Records after the game: Columbus 26-20-7; Chicago 21-25-9.
• Period scoring: Columbus 1-2-1; Chicago 1-1-0.
• Goaltending: Elvis Merzlikins made 22 saves on 24 shots.

Columbus’ formula combined depth scoring with a controlled third period, turning a one-goal game into a road win that reinforced its recent momentum.