After a disappointing defeat in Pittsburgh, the Columbus Blue Jackets returned home to face the Edmonton Oilers, who were on a five-game winning streak.
First Period: Following a controversial decision to bench Kirill Marchenko on Tuesday, he and his teammates started the game. The Blue Jackets took the lead with a goal from their fourth line, showcasing teamwork as Mathieu Olivier battled to keep the puck in play, Justin Danforth maneuvered it below the goal line, and Sean Kuraly made a precise pass to Olivier for a well-executed goal. Another goal followed swiftly as Cole Sillinger’s line continued its impressive performance, setting up Alex Nylander for his fifth goal since joining the team. Shortly after, Sam Carrick of the Oilers challenged Olivier to a fight, which Olivier accepted and won convincingly. Dmitri Voronkov then intercepted a play effectively, leading to his own goal. All three goals demonstrated strong effort and strategic play.
Bringing the energy, burying the puck.
Mathieu Olivier makes the most out of a scoring chance in front of the net and gives the @BlueJacketsNHL a 1-0 lead over the Oilers in the first period.#CBJ pic.twitter.com/K774AC9ivz
— Bally Sports Columbus (@BallySportsCBUS) March 8, 2024
Second Period: Despite the early 3-0 lead by the Blue Jackets, the Oilers responded promptly in the second period, capitalizing on fortunate bounces to score their first goal.
Third Period: The Blue Jackets earned a power play early in the third period, but despite some attempts, only managed one shot on goal. A tense moment arose when Corey Perry collided with Justin Danforth and Sean Kuraly, resulting in penalties for both teams. The Blue Jackets successfully killed off a 5-on-3 situation, but the Oilers capitalized on a subsequent opportunity, with Evander Kane’s shot deflected in by Perry. Towards the end of the game, the Blue Jackets maintained possession well, preventing the Oilers from pulling their goaltender until late in the game. Daniil Tarasov made crucial saves, and Alexandre Texier set up Jack Roslovic for an empty-net goal, potentially Roslovic’s last contribution before a potential trade.
A less-than-friendly welcome.@BlueJacketsNHL forward Mathieu Olivier dropped the gloves and traded punches with Sam Carrick, who is playing in his first game with the Oilers.#CBJ pic.twitter.com/TO2OtOp4cX
— Bally Sports Columbus (@BallySportsCBUS) March 8, 2024
Making himself right at home!
Alex Nylander scored his fifth goal in seven games since being traded to the @BlueJacketsNHL and gave Columbus a 2-0 lead over the Oilers late in the first period.#CBJ pic.twitter.com/74ROkctCXu
— Bally Sports Columbus (@BallySportsCBUS) March 8, 2024
Final Thoughts: Goalkeeper Daniil Tarasov stood out with an outstanding performance, particularly in the third period. The Sillinger line showcased exceptional performance with a 73.08 CF% (Corsi For Percentage). Despite holding the lead, the Blue Jackets maintained pressure on the Oilers throughout the final two periods, demonstrating improvement in holding leads compared to earlier in the season. Notably, Edmonton’s star player Connor McDavid had minimal impact on the game, registering zero shots on goal in the first two periods. Looking ahead, the trade deadline looms, with Roslovic potentially being moved. On the ice, the Blue Jackets will face Nashville on Saturday for Kids’ Takeover Day at Nationwide Arena.
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