Elvis And The Blue Jackets Leave Vegas With A Loss

 It was an explosive first period for the Columbus Blue Jackets.  Right out of the gate Nyquist would score, just 45 seconds into the game.  About eight minutes later Texier would have a beautiful goal of his own.  It's also special to note that Bean and Werenski were both credited with assist on both of these goals, so good for them too!

Period 2 only had 1 good goal.  I say this because Vegas fans and players alike felt they had a good goal when Merzlikins left the net.  This wasn't the case as Merzlikins left the net due to a penalty and the goal was ruled no good as the Blue Jackets went on the powerplay.  Unfortunately, no goal would result from said powerplay and the score would remain 2-1 after a Golden Knights goal at 7:07 from Kolesar.

In Period 3 the Blue Jackets would have some serious defense issues, relying heavily on Merzlikins.  He had some incredible saves, but one made it past him.  The Golden Knights would tie the game with a goal from Smith at 4:45.  Another goal would come for the Golden Knights via Janmark, Head Coach Brad Larson would challenge it for off sides, however it would not be overturned and ruled as a good goal.  This would occur at 13:53.  Sadly for the Blue Jackets this would be the final score of thee game.  Blue Jackets lose 3-2.

I'll be honest, this was the Blue Jackets game to lose, especially after the great start they had.  Elvis is a great goaltender, but he can't do everything, and his protection dropped off significantly in the third period.  Not every game will be perfect, however they have some key things to fix before the Golden Knights come to Columbus in March.  This leave the Blue Jackets at 9-6-0 on the 2021-22 NHL season.  The last game, for this road trip, is at the Sabres tomorrow evening.  Puck drop is a much earlier 7:00 PM.

We'll see you then 5th Line!