Columbus Blue Jackets Complete Sweep of Tampa Bay Lightning

Takeaways from the Blue Jackets' 5-2 victory over the Lightning, keeping pace in the playoff chase

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Columbus Blue Jackets defeated the Tampa Bay Lightning 5-2 to complete a season sweep of the two-time defending Stanley Cup champions. Despite trailing 1-0 after the first period, the Blue Jackets were the aggressors throughout and pulled away late in the third period. The win keeps Columbus in the hunt for a playoff spot, and the knowledge and confidence gained from dominating the Lightning could prove invaluable.

Why it matters

The Blue Jackets' ability to defeat the Lightning, one of the NHL's best teams, demonstrates their growth and potential to make a playoff push. This win over a perennial contender could provide a significant boost to the Blue Jackets' morale and belief in their ability to compete with the league's elite.

The details

The Blue Jackets fell behind 1-0 early but steadily gained momentum, outshooting and outworking the Lightning despite finishing a back-to-back set. Columbus built a 3-1 lead and never looked back, scoring two late goals to seal the victory. Conor Garland, acquired in a trade earlier this month, has provided an instant spark, scoring two goals in consecutive games for the Blue Jackets. The team's power play and penalty kill, which have struggled at times this season, were both effective against the Lightning.

  • The Blue Jackets defeated the Lightning 5-2 on March 10, 2026.
  • The Blue Jackets have now swept the season series against the Lightning.

The players

Conor Garland

A forward acquired by the Blue Jackets in a trade earlier this month, Garland has provided an instant spark, scoring two goals in consecutive games for his new team.

Elvis Merzlikins

The Blue Jackets' starting goaltender, Merzlikins made 16 saves on 18 shots and added a primary assist for his second helper of the season.

Rick Bowness

The Blue Jackets' head coach, who told reporters that the team went into the third period determined to play on their toes and not on their heels.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We went into that third period determined that, 'We're playing on our toes, we're not playing on our heels.'”

— Rick Bowness, Head Coach (Blue Jackets)

What’s next

The Blue Jackets will look to build on this momentum as they continue their push for a playoff spot, with key games against other contenders like the Boston Bruins and New York Islanders on the horizon.

The takeaway

The Blue Jackets' dominant performance against the Lightning, one of the NHL's elite teams, demonstrates their growth and potential to make a deep playoff run. The confidence and knowledge gained from this sweep could prove invaluable as Columbus fights to secure a postseason berth.