Dmitri Voronkov (13), Mason Marchment (5), and Zach Werenski (14) all found the net for Columbus, while Elvis Merzlikins recovered from a slow start to make 24 saves in a narrow 4-3 defeat to Anaheim.
In the first period, Anaheim initially took a 2-0 lead with goals from Mikael Granlund on a 3-on-1 break and Jacob Trouba. Despite Merzlikins allowing five goals on eight shots in his last start, Columbus responded when rookie Beckett Sennecke drew a penalty for holding the stick, leading to Voronkov scoring his sixth power play goal after a slick pass from Charlie Coyle. Columbus also successfully killed a power play after Kent Johnson’s delay of game penalty, maintaining Anaheim’s penalty kill streak.
During the second period, newcomer Mason Marchment scored his first Blue Jackets goal by deflecting a Damon Severson shot, although he humorously dropped his gum on the ice during the celebration. Columbus faced another power play after Beckett Senecke caused goaltender interference, but Anaheim couldn’t capitalize. Mason McTavish cut the Jackets’ lead with a goal at 13:36 after a turnover by Dante Fabbro. Late in the period, Marchment’s penalty gave the Ducks another power play, but it was successfully killed off.
The third period featured back-and-forth play with key saves from Merzlikins and Ducks’ goalie Lukás Dostaal. Werenski extended his strong season by scoring his 14th goal at 12:44, tying him for most goals among NHL defensemen. However, a costly mistake in puck clearing allowed Pavel Minchukov to score the game-winner for Anaheim. Werenski then suffered an injury blocking a shot, leading to a penalty that Columbus scored on, but it wasn’t enough as the Jackets fell 4-3.
Final stats highlight Voronkov’s 13th season goal and six power play goals, Marchment’s first as a CBJ, Werenski’s 14th goal alongside 26 assists, and several players contributing assists. Columbus’s power play was effective at 1 for 2, they continued to stifle Anaheim with 49 consecutive penalty kills, won 57.4% of faceoffs, but struggled with 15 giveaways.
Next up, the Jackets visit Los Angeles to face the Kings on Monday.
Fan Take: This game showcased the resilience and skill of the Blue Jackets despite the tough loss, highlighting key players like Werenski and Voronkov who continue to impress. It’s a reminder that hockey fans should watch Columbus closely, as their potential to challenge top teams adds excitement and depth to the NHL this season.
