The Columbus Blue Jackets fall to the four point performance of Tampa Bay Lightning captain Steven Stamkos in what might have been his last career game against Columbus in Tampa. The final score of the game was 5-2 for the Bolts.

Period I

Brayden Point opened the scoring for the home team past the halfway mark of the first period. His goal would be his 44th of the season with the assists going to potential Art Ross winner Nikita Kucherov and Blue Jackets’ legend Anthony Duclair.

Kirill the Thrill Marchenko evened the game with 43 seconds left in the period for his new career high 22nd goal of the season. Cole Sillinger and Damon Severson both earned their 18th assists of the year.

Period II

Marchenko extended his career high goal scoring season on the powerplay with his second of the evening and 23rd if the year. Johnny Gaudreau earned his 500th career assist. Team USA member Zach Werenski had the secondary assist.

Lightning captain Steven Stamkos tied the game at deuce on the Tampa powerplay for his 37th of the season from Nikita Kucherov and Victor Hedman.

Period III

Anthony Cirelli potted the game winning goal for his 20th of the season with the apples going to Brandon Hagel and Stamkos.

Stamkos got his second of the evening seconds after the game winner was recorded for his 38th of the campaign from Hagel and Erik Cernak.

Stammer got the empty net hattrick for his 39th of the season with Kucherov getting the lone assist.

Players to Watch

Steven Stamkos — now at 77 points in 75 games after a four point night.

David Jiricek — a shot on goal and a blocked shot in 13 minutes. Least of all the defenders. Stop sheltering this kid this late in the season. Let him learn and play. -1

Goaltenders

Andrei Vaslievsky — 30 saves on 32 shots faced for a 0.938 save percentage.

Jet Greaves — 28 saves on 32 shots for a 0.875 save percentage.

CBJ THREE STARS OF THE GAME

1. Kirill Marchenko — 2 goals (23), career high

2. Johnny Gaudreau — assist (46); 500 career assists

3. Zach Werenski — assist (44)

What’s Next?

The Florida Panthers in Sunrise. Third game of four on the road trip.

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