Columbus Blue Jackets Defeat Tampa Bay Lightning 8-5 in High-Scoring Match
Columbus, OH – The Columbus Blue Jackets defeated the Tampa Bay Lightning 8-5 on Saturday night, January 24, 2026, ending the Lightning’s streak of 15 straight games without a regulation loss. Mason Marchment led the Blue Jackets with a hat trick, while Charlie Coyle scored his 200th career goal.
Game Highlights
The Blue Jackets took an early lead with a four-goal first period, their highest-scoring opening frame since March 15, 2003. Cole Sillinger opened the scoring at 5:47 of the first period, capitalizing on a neutral-zone turnover. However, the Lightning quickly responded, tying the game at 1-1 when a clearing attempt by Jet Greaves deflected off Isac Lundestrom’s skate and into the net, with Jake Guentzel credited with the goal.
Adam Fantilli scored on a rebound for his first goal in 17 games, dating back to December 16. Nikita Kucherov scored his team-leading 26th goal of the season at 3:29 of the second period and assisted on Anthony Cirelli’s tying goal at 4:58. Marchment then scored his second goal at 9:05 of the second period, just six seconds after exiting the penalty box, putting Columbus ahead for good.
Key Performances
- Mason Marchment (CBJ): Recorded his third career hat trick.
- Charlie Coyle (CBJ): Scored his 200th career goal and added two assists.
- Adam Fantilli (CBJ): Contributed a goal and two assists.
- Jake Guentzel (TBL): Scored twice and had an assist.
- Nikita Kucherov (TBL): Registered a goal and three assists.
Team Statistics
Jet Greaves stopped 24 shots for the Blue Jackets. Jonas Johansson made 23 saves for the Lightning.
Injuries
Tampa Bay sustained two injuries during the game. Erik Cernak left the game after a hit by Mathieu Olivier with 2:15 remaining in the first period, and Charle-Edouard D’Astous exited after a blue-line collision at 7:46 of the third period.
Looking Ahead
The Columbus Blue Jackets will look to continue their strong offensive performance in their next game, while the Tampa Bay Lightning will aim to rebound from this defeat and address the injuries sustained during the contest.