COLUMBUS, Ohio — In an exciting matchup, the Florida Panthers emerged victorious against the Columbus Blue Jackets with a final score of 4-3, courtesy of Sam Reinhart’s remarkable performance, which included a goal and two assists. Anton Lundell also contributed with a goal and an assist, while goaltender Spencer Knight delivered an impressive performance, stopping 35 shots. This game not only marked a win for the Panthers, now holding a record of 3-2-0, but also disrupted the Blue Jackets’ home opener, which was filled with heartfelt tributes to Johnny Gaudreau.

In addition to Reinhart and Lundell, Eetu Luostarinen and Dmitry Kulikov also found the back of the net for the Panthers, as they secured their second consecutive win. The Blue Jackets, now with a record of 1-2-0, saw Cole Sillinger net his maiden short-handed goal alongside scores from Sean Monahan and James van Riemsdyk. Despite playing in front of a supportive crowd, Columbus goalie Elvis Merzlikins managed to make 18 saves throughout the game.

Before the match commenced, emotional pregame ceremonies took place to honor Gaudreau’s legacy. His family members were present at Nationwide Arena to witness a banner raised in his honor. This tribute was especially poignant as Gaudreau’s wife, Meredith, and their two children shared the ice with his former teammates during the ceremony. Tragically, the 31-year-old Gaudreau and his brother Matthew lost their lives in an accident on August 29, after they were reportedly struck by a suspected drunken driver while cycling.

The Blue Jackets kicked off the scoring just 41 seconds into the second period, with Sillinger executing a breakaway that led to a backhanded shot over Knight’s shoulder, thanks to a setup from Kent Johnson.

**Key Takeaways**
Bringing home his first victory since January 23, 2023, Spencer Knight faced significant pressure, as Columbus outshot Florida with 38 total shots to the Panthers’ 22. The Blue Jackets, despite generating more shots on goal, found it challenging to keep up with Florida’s scoring pace. Late in the game, van Riemsdyk pulled the Blue Jackets closer with a goal, but they were ultimately unable to tie the game again.

**Key Moment**
A whirlwind of activity transpired in the second period when Florida scored twice and Columbus responded once in a brief span of 1:37. Lundell evened the score at one goal at 10:25, followed shortly by Monahan’s tap-in that gave Columbus a brief lead. However, that lead was short-lived as Kulikov struck back to level the score once again.

**Key Stat**
Reinhart is off to a remarkable start, posting four goals and four assists in the first five games of the season for the Panthers.

**Upcoming Games**
Looking ahead, the Panthers are scheduled to host the Vancouver Canucks on Thursday night, while the Blue Jackets will make their way to face the Buffalo Sabres on the same day.