Opinion
3 min read

Ice Rivals Clash: Lightning Strikes Nationwide Arena in Duel with Blue Jackets

As the Tampa Bay Lightning prepare to face off against the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be an electrifying encounter. The upcoming game on February 11th is set against a backdrop of recent performances that suggest the Lightning have found their stride at just the right time.


Nov 2, 2023; Columbus, Ohio, USA;  Columbus Blue Jackets left wing Kirill Marchenko (86) skates for the puck against Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Nick Perbix (48) in the first period at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

In their last outing on December 24th against the Washington Capitals, TB demonstrated resilience and tactical prowess. Despite scoring only once during regulation time and being forced into a shootout, they emerged victorious with a final score of 2-1. A key takeaway from this game was their exceptional faceoff win percentage of 63 percent and a perfect penalty kill, which could prove vital in their next matchup.


The defensive solidity shown by TB has been commendable; they blocked an impressive 21 shots while also taking control of puck possession as evidenced by their twelve takeaways. Their goaltender's save percentage stood at an impeccable 100 percent after facing 34 shots, highlighting just how formidable they can be when protecting their net.


Nov 2, 2023; Columbus, Ohio, USA;  Columbus Blue Jackets center Boone Jenner (38) attempts to deflect the puck against Tampa Bay Lightning goaltender Matt Tomkins (90) in the third period at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

Turning our attention to offense, it's clear that TB has room for improvement in powerplay situations. With zero goals from two opportunities against the Capitals, capitalizing on these moments could be crucial against CBJ. However, it's worth noting that in a previous game on December 22nd versus Vegas Golden Knights, TB showcased lethal efficiency with two powerplay goals out of four chances contributing to a commanding 5-4 victory.


The Columbus Blue Jackets will certainly not make things easy for TB; they're known for being tenacious competitors who can capitalize on any given chance. However, if recent form is anything to go by – especially considering TB's dominant performance over St. Louis Blues where they secured six points and maintained an impressive shooting percentage of 18 percent – then fans should feel confident about Tampa Bay Lightning’s prospects.


Nov 2, 2023; Columbus, Ohio, USA;  Fans cheer as time expires during the game between the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Columbus Blue Jackets in the third period at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

Looking ahead to February 11th’s clash at Nationwide Arena scheduled for midnight GMT (7 PM Eastern Time), fans should expect Tampa Bay Lightning to bring intensity and strategic execution onto the ice as they aim to continue building momentum in this season’s campaign. For those unable or unwilling to brave the cold temperatures inside Nationwide Arena but eager not to miss any action-packed moments or potential highlight-reel plays - rest assured you can catch all live coverage through ESPN+ online or tune into BSSUN channel number 653 if cheering from away territory.

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