Blue Jackets Fall to Panthers Amid Emotional Tribute

The Florida Panthers defeated the Columbus Blue Jackets 4-3 in a game that overshadowed the Blue Jackets' home opener, which honored the late Johnny Gaudreau. Sam Reinhart and Anton Lundell led the Panthers with pivotal goals and assists, while Spencer Knight made 35 stops for his first win since January 2023. The game was emotionally charged due to pregame tributes to Gaudreau, who tragically died alongside his brother in a bicycle accident in August. Despite a strong start and outshooting the Panthers, the Blue Jackets couldn't secure a win, as new head coach Dean Evason and the team navigate a season marked by recent tragedy. Across the NHL, all teams are honoring Gaudreau and his brother by wearing helmet stickers, and the Blue Jackets continue to hold significant memorials both at home and on the road. The Panthers are set to play against Vancouver next, while the Blue Jackets will face Buffalo.