So the Lightning put together a strong third period, specifically the final 12 minutes. But the rest of the game had a much different look to it. From both teams, it wasn't exactly a work of art. There were fumbled pucks all over the ice. Neither club really got in synch. Prior to Palat's goal, the Lightning's best stretch came in the opening minutes. They applied offensive zone pressure and generated good looks from Barclay Goodrow and Ryan McDonagh. They posted the first five shots on goal in the game. But after taking a penalty at 8:57 of the first, the Lightning allowed a power play goal to Seth Jones and didn't post another shot for the rest of the period.
Their choppy play continued into the second, as they struggled to string together clean passes. The Blue Jackets weren't able to tilt the ice, either, but Columbus did have one glorious chance to extend the lead. That came on a Jack Roslovic breakaway, but Curtis McElhinney made the save. With just over five minutes left in the second, Yanni Gourde jumped on a Columbus turnover in the neutral zone and set up Blake Coleman at the right circle. Coleman's shot deflected off Merlikins and into the net, tying the game at one.
The Lightning's third period play was the highlight of this contest. But McElhinney's performance, one in which he made 24 saves, was another key to the win.
Lightning Radio Three Stars of the Game (as selected by Phil Esposito):
1. Curtis McElhinney - Lightning. 24 saves.
2. Blake Coleman - Lightning. Two goals.
3. Seth Jones - Columbus. Goal.
