Jackets’ Gaudreau and Jenner Combine for Brilliant Game-Winning Goal against Sharks
The Columbus Blue Jackets had a thrilling victory over the San Jose Sharks on Saturday, thanks to a brilliant play by Johnny Gaudreau and Boone Jenner. Although Gaudreau didn’t manage to score any goals in the game, his playmaking skills were on full display as he provided two primary assists, including a breathtaking pass to Jenner for the game-winning goal with just 12.9 seconds left on the clock.
Gaudreau had an outstanding performance throughout the game and could have easily scored multiple goals if luck had been on his side. He had three breakaways in the first period alone, but unfortunately, none of them resulted in a goal. The first was disrupted by the Sharks’ goaltender, Kaapo Kahkonen, while the second hit the post and the third sailed just high.
Despite not finding the back of the net himself, Gaudreau’s passing ability proved to be crucial for the Blue Jackets’ victory. His assist to Jenner started all the way from his own blue line and perfectly found its way to Jenner’s backhand stick through a small opening. Jenner made no mistake and managed to beat Kahkonen with a sneaky backhand shot, securing the win for the Blue Jackets.
Jenner deserves high praise for his goal as well. He showed great determination by skating hard to get in front of two Sharks players before scoring. After finding the back of the net, Jenner even wiped out and crashed into the end boards during the celebration.
The victory against the Sharks was significant for the Blue Jackets as they won a regulation road game, which has been a challenge for them this season. It was only their fifth win of this kind so far. Additionally, Zach Werenski, Dmitri Voronkov, and Kirill Marchenko also contributed with goals for the Blue Jackets.
For Werenski, his goal ended a 38-game goal drought, the longest of his career. He scored a wrist shot from above the right circle, a type of shot that usually leads to many goals in a season. However, Werenski has only managed to score two goals this season.
Gaudreau’s performance was exceptional, despite not scoring himself. His two assists were crucial for the team’s victory, and he has been one of the Blue Jackets’ top players for several games now. He is currently on a six-game point streak dating back to before the NHL All-Star break.
The game against the Sharks also marked a positive start to the Blue Jackets’ road trip, especially considering the recent firing of their longtime general manager, Jarmo Kekalainen. The team has struggled to close out games this season, particularly in the third period. However, this time they managed to persevere and secure the win, thanks to Jenner’s late goal.
The victory against the Sharks gives the Blue Jackets a much-needed boost of confidence as they continue their road trip. Although Gaudreau may not have had his best scoring night, his playmaking abilities proved to be invaluable. With players like Gaudreau and Jenner leading the way, the Blue Jackets have a chance to turn their season around and make a push for the playoffs.