The Columbus Blue Jackets failed to hold onto the early lead, dropping their first home game back to the Buffalo Sabres by the final score of 2-1 in regulation on Margaritaville Night at the Nationwide Arena and on the NHL Network.

Period I

The rookie Dmitry Voronkov continues his strong push on the reunited young Russian line for his 15th goal of the season on the powerplay. Fellow Russian teammates Kirill Marchenko and Ivan Provorov had the assists on the opening and lone Jackets’ goal.

Deadline rental Zemgus Girgensons evened the game at one minutes later for his sixth of the season from the captain Kyle Okposo and Kale Clague, getting his first assist as a Sabre.

Period II

No goals. Goalies stopped all.

Period III

Connor Clifton got his first as a member of the Sabres, and that would stand as the game winner. Jacob Bryson and rookie Zach Benson had the assists.

Players to Watch

Casey Mittlestadt had 2 shots in 18:36TOI. Non-factor last evening.

Jack Roslovic had 6 shots on goal with a -1 rating in 16:03 time on ice.

Goaltenders

Ukka-Pekka Lukkonnen stopped 25 of 26 shots faced for a 0.962 save percentage.

Daniil Tarasov stopped 35 of 37 shots for a 0.946 save percentage.

CBJ THREE STARS OF THE GAME

1. Daniil Tarasov — 35 saves; 94.6 SV%

2. Dmitry Voronkov — PPG (15)

3. Kirill Marchenko — assist (13)

What’s Next?

Afternoon gameday action between the Blue Jackets and New York Rangers, being led by potential Hart candidate Artemi Panarin and the resurgent Jonathan Quick in the pipes. Blue Jackets legends. Players to Watch

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