Zach Werenski’s masterstroke at 1:25 of the overtime session marked the climax of a thrilling game as the Columbus Blue Jackets overcame a three-goal deficit to triumph over the Tampa Bay Lightning, in an electrifying 7-6 victory on Thursday night. Werenski, shining in the spotlight, equalized the game at 4 in the second period and contributed with three assists, helping the Blue Jackets secure their second consecutive win.

Key Players in the Clash

Sean Monahan and Dmitri Voronkov greatly supported their team with a goal and three assists and a goal plus an assist, respectively. Kent Johnson, returning from an injury hiatus that had sidelined him for 14 games, made his mark with a power play and a short-handed goal. Yegor Chinakhov added another goal to the tally while Elvis Merzlikins showcased his goalkeeping skills by blocking 24 shots.

For the Lightning, Anthony Cirelli, Mitchell Chaffee, Brandon Hagel, and Connor Geekie all performed valiantly, each securing a goal and an assist. Brayden Point and Cam Atkinson also added to the scoresheet, with Nikita Kucherov assisting thrice. Jonas Johansson showed resilience with 36 saves.

Game Highlights

Despite Tampa Bay’s seemingly smooth sailing after netting three early goals, they couldn’t sustain their lead. The Blue Jackets, back on their home turf after seven out of their last eight games on the road, retaliated fiercely with four goals in the second period.

The game’s pivotal moment was undoubtedly when Tampa Bay, leading by three goals in the first period, found themselves under fire in the second period. Columbus turned the tables, scoring four times and Tampa only twice.

Notable Stats

Brayden Point, in his second game after a four-match absence due to a lower-body injury, scored a power-play goal just 23 seconds into a Columbus penalty, at 1:51 of the first period. Point has now netted three times in two games, tying with Nikita Kucherov for the team lead with 11.

What’s Next?

Both teams will return to the ice on Saturday night. The Lightning will face Dallas at home, while the Blue Jackets prepare to host Carolina.

James Thornton brings over a decade of sports journalism experience to 21Sports.com. Known for his razor-sharp analysis and passion for the game, James has covered everything from Super Bowls to the Olympics. His deep knowledge of football and ability to break down complex strategies make his articles a must-read for any sports fan. Off the field, James is an avid golfer who enjoys exploring new courses on the weekends.