Tampa Bay Lightning @ Columbus Blue Jackets: 11/2/23 Game Recap

 We're officially in November hockey, 5th Line! The Blue Jackets would look to shake off their road loss to the Stars in Dallas a few days ago, and period one was a good start. Kirill Marchenko would find his way to the net for the first time this season at 8:29! Dmiri Voronkov would add assist number two to his total this season, while Cole Sillinger would gain his fourth. The Blue Jackets would hold off the Lightning for the rest of the period, maintaining their 1-0 lead. 

The Lightning would come out charged and ready to play the second twenty-minute period, though. Steven Stamkos would shoot one past Elvis Merzlikins in net at 2:53. Then, 4:42 would see the Lightning snatch the lead for the first time from the Blue Jackets, thanks to Conor Sheary. We would stop hemorrhaging goals after these two, but the Lightning would carry their new 2-1 lead into the final regulation period. 

During this final period, though, it was time for the Blue Jackets to take back the Nationwide Arena thunder! First, Captain Boone Jenner would take his fifth puck to the net this season. Zach Werenski would add his fifth assist of the season, while David Severson would mark his third. A tied game wasn't good enough for the Blue Jackets; Erik Gudbranson had to get in on the scoring, too! This would be his first of the new season and Emil Bemstrom's first assist, being the primary. The secondary assist would mark Adam Fantilli's fourth so far, and he's getting an excellent total for his rookie season! Then, with an open net, Johnny Hockey (Johnny Jacket) would FINALLY get his first goal this season! He'd send it home at 17:49, and Ivan Proverov would tack on his eighth assist. Proverov is playing some fantastic hockey. The Blue Jackets would then coast to a smooth win, 4-2, over the Tampa Bay Lightning. 

It's a .931% for Merzlikins. The Lightning found their way to him 29 times, and he stopped them on 27. This is one of the best, if not the best, nights he's had this season. 

So, two points in the back pocket and some confidence to go. We'll now head to D.C. and play the Capitals on Saturday evening at 7:00 p.m. Their fan base always brings the fire, which always makes for a fun matchup. Can't wait!

Go CBJ!   


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