Zach Werenski’s incredible performance led the Columbus Blue Jackets to a thrilling 7-6 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning. Werenski’s overtime goal sealed the deal in a game where he not only scored but also contributed with three assists. This win marked the Blue Jackets’ second consecutive victory, showcasing their resilience and determination on the ice.
In addition to Werenski’s standout performance, Sean Monahan and Dmitri Voronkov also made significant contributions to the team’s success. Monahan recorded a goal and three assists, while Voronkov added a goal and an assist to the scoreboard. Kent Johnson, returning from a 14-game absence due to an injury, made a strong comeback by scoring a power-play goal and a short-handed goal in his first game back.
Yegor Chinakhov also found the back of the net for the Blue Jackets, with goaltender Elvis Merzlikins making 24 crucial saves to secure the win. On the other side, Tampa Bay saw goals from Anthony Cirelli, Mitchell Chaffee, Brandon Hagel, and Connor Geekie. Brayden Point and Cam Atkinson also contributed to the Lightning’s efforts, with Nikita Kucherov tallying three assists in the game.
The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, with Tampa Bay taking an early three-goal lead in the first period, only to see Columbus mount an impressive comeback in the second period. The Blue Jackets scored four times in the second frame, while Tampa Bay managed to find the back of the net twice in a high-scoring affair.
Brayden Point, who recently returned from a lower-body injury, continued his strong performance with a power-play goal early in the game. With three goals in two games, Point has been a key player for the Lightning alongside Kucherov, who leads the team with 11 goals.
Both teams will be looking to carry the momentum from this game into their next matchups on Saturday night. Tampa Bay is set to face off against Dallas, while the Blue Jackets will host Carolina in what promises to be another exciting night of hockey action. Fans can expect more thrilling moments and standout performances as these teams continue to battle it out on the ice.
