Opinion
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Tampa Bay Lightning Prepares to Host Columbus Blue Jackets in High-Voltage Matchup

As the Tampa Bay Lightning gears up to host the Columbus Blue Jackets at Amalie Arena, fans are bracing for what promises to be a riveting encounter. The Lightning's recent performances have been a mixed bag of high-octane offense and moments of defensive lapses, but there's every reason to believe that they will harness their strengths for the upcoming game.


Feb 10, 2024; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets goalie Elvis Merzlikins (90) makes a save on the shot from Tampa Bay Lightning center Brayden Point (21) during the first period at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Russell LaBounty-USA TODAY Sports

In their last outing against the Detroit Red Wings on April 1st, despite falling short with a score of 2-4, TB demonstrated resilience. They fired off an impressive 36 shots and managed to block 14 attempts from their opponents. Their powerplay unit capitalized once out of three opportunities, showcasing an ability to exploit man-advantage situations.


The defensive side showed some cracks as they conceded four goals during even strength play while managing only two themselves. However, it's worth noting that TB's goaltending was solid with a save percentage rounding up to 100 percent during powerplays and shorthanded scenarios.


Feb 10, 2024; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets left wing Johnny Gaudreau (13) and Tampa Bay Lightning center Luke Glendening (11) chase down a loose puck during the third period at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Russell LaBounty-USA TODAY Sports

Looking back at another recent game on March 30th against the New York Islanders, TB emerged victorious with a scoreline reflecting their offensive prowess: four goals netted on an imposing total of 40 shots. Their faceoff win percentage stood at an encouraging 57 percent which allowed them control over puck possession—a critical factor in dictating the pace and flow of play.


Against Boston Bruins on March 27th, TB clinched another win by maintaining strong defense throughout regular play time—allowing only one goal—and demonstrating efficiency in shot conversion with three goals from just over thirty attempts.


Feb 10, 2024; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets center Boone Jenner (38) looks tip a shot against the Tampa Bay Lightning during the second period at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Russell LaBounty-USA TODAY Sports

The Columbus Blue Jackets come into this matchup after displaying formidable even-strength performance in their previous games but have shown vulnerability when down a player or during powerplays. This could be where Tampa Bay Lightning finds its edge; exploiting these moments when CBJ is less formidable could tilt the scales in favor of TB.


The upcoming game scheduled for April 9th is set against this backdrop: A Tampa Bay team that has shown flashes of brilliance offensively but needs tightening up defensively will face off against a Columbus squad that can hold its own at even strength but may falter under special teams pressure.


Fans can catch all the action live as it unfolds starting at 7:00 PM ET at Amalie Arena or tune into ESPN+ online as well as BSOH and BSSUN on television networks for comprehensive coverage.

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