There’s a unique energy that fills an arena during the NHL preseason, a blend of anticipation and raw competition. While the stakes might not be as high as a playoff game, the passion on the ice and in the stands remains palpable. Watching the Columbus Blue Jackets clash with the Pittsburgh Penguins on September 27, 2025, as captured in the highlights above, offered a thrilling glimpse into the season ahead. It was a contest defined by spectacular goaltending, emerging offensive talents, and the enduring brilliance of hockey legends.
This particular game wasn’t just another exhibition; for the Penguins, it followed their first home preseason victory, a hard-fought 3-2 comeback against Detroit. Such early wins, even in exhibition play, can set a positive tone. This match against the Blue Jackets continued that narrative, providing ample opportunity for both veterans and prospects to fine-tune their game and make a lasting impression.
Merzļikins’ Masterclass: Standing Tall in the Blue Jackets Net
If there was one player who truly dominated the narrative for Columbus, it was goaltender Elvis Merzļikins. He performed like a brick wall, frustrating Pittsburgh’s potent offense with a series of dazzling saves that seemed to defy logic. From the opening minutes, Merzļikins showcased his elite athleticism, turning aside a Rust backhander with a quick toe save and later denying a dangerous redirect from Rakell in tight.
Merzļikins demonstrated a remarkable ability to read the play, often reacting with split-second precision. He calmly handled a Damon Hunt drive, smothered a centering pass from Koivunen, and stood firm against Malkin’s stick save opportunity. His performance was a clinic in positional play and acrobatic saves, highlighting why he remains such a vital piece for the Blue Jackets.
A Barrage of Shots, A Goalie’s Resolve
The Penguins threw everything they had at the Columbus netminder, testing him with various types of shots. Merzļikins faced a long-range shot through traffic, a shot from Caleb Jones, and a power-play stuff attempt from Rakell. He made an incredible kick save on another Rakell shot from the slot, a moment commentators hailed as potentially his best of the night, illustrating his ability to come up big in high-pressure situations.
Even on a Chinakhov breakaway, a scenario every goaltender dreads, Merzļikins held his ground, delivering a firm “no” to the scoring chance. His windmill glove save on Koivunen later in the game was a testament to his flair and agility, captivating fans and reminding everyone of his incredible skill set. For the Blue Jackets, Merzļikins’ formidable presence offers a significant foundation as they build for the regular season.
Pittsburgh’s Persistent Offense and Veteran Power
Despite Merzļikins’ heroics, the Pittsburgh Penguins’ offense ultimately found ways to break through. Their veteran core, spearheaded by future Hall of Famers, showcased why they remain a formidable threat in the league. Their ability to generate sustained pressure and capitalize on opportunities is a hallmark of their success.
Sidney Crosby, ever the clutch performer, netted a goal that brought the Penguins even. The play unfolded with crisp passing, as Avery Hayes made a smart play to draw a defender, opening up space for Crosby to pounce. This kind of unselfish playmaking is a hallmark of Crosby’s game, often making his teammates look better and highlighting his leadership on the ice.
Rakell Rises: Power Play Prowess
Ricard Rakell proved to be a key offensive force for Pittsburgh, especially on the power play. After Columbus incurred a two-minute minor for high sticking, the Penguins’ special teams went to work. With just “a dozen seconds in the period,” Erik Karlsson, showing incredible patience despite the ticking clock, dished the puck around before firing a shot that eventually led to Rakell chipping in a loose puck for a power play goal. This sequence underscored the importance of special teams even in preseason, allowing the team to work on critical aspects of their game under pressure.
Rakell later sealed the deal with an empty-net goal, displaying his “slick mitts” and determination to out-battle defenders. His performance was a strong indicator of his offensive readiness, proving he can be a reliable scoring option for the Penguins when the regular season begins in earnest. The way he pestered defenders and stayed with the play is a testament to his relentless work ethic.
Columbus Blue Jackets: Emerging Talents and Offensive Flashes
While Merzļikins was the defensive anchor, the Columbus Blue Jackets also displayed flashes of offensive brilliance, particularly from their younger players. These preseason matchups are invaluable opportunities for prospects to demonstrate their readiness for the big stage, and several Blue Jackets made a strong case for increased ice time.
Luca Del Bel Belluz, the goal scorer for Columbus, found the back of the net with a timely chip-in atop the crease, putting the Blue Jackets on the board. The play originated from a quick transition in the neutral zone, with Chinakhov showing deft puck control and a forehand-to-backhand move to set up the scoring chance. This quick-strike ability from emerging talents like Del Bel Belluz and Chinakhov bodes well for the future of the franchise.
Sillinger’s Dangerous Chances
Cole Sillinger also created significant opportunities, including a shot that rang off the post. His ability to find open ice and generate dangerous shots underscores his potential as a top-six forward. Even in preseason, these near-misses are important learning experiences, refining players’ instincts for when the regular season tightens its grip.
Players like Kindel also contributed to the offensive effort, creating turnovers and driving to the net, showcasing the kind of tenacious forecheck that Columbus will need to succeed. The Blue Jackets are actively working on their team chemistry and execution, with these young players playing a crucial role in shaping their identity.
The Enduring Impact of Veteran Leadership
Beyond the scoresheet, the game highlighted the invaluable presence of veteran players, particularly Marc-André Fleury, who suited up for his first home preseason game. Fleury’s demeanor and leadership were palpable, extending beyond just his saves. He was described as “captain of the ship,” actively engaged in every session, a testament to his contagious enthusiasm and work ethic, even at 40 years old.
Kyle Dubas’s observation about Fleury at the World Championships, where even young talents like Fantilli described him as one of the best teammates, speaks volumes. It’s not just about the saves; it’s about the mentorship and the positive atmosphere he brings to the locker room. This kind of veteran presence, as seen with Fleury, Crosby, Malkin, and Letang (who had a 30-point season last year), is critical for developing young players and maintaining a winning culture.
Preseason: Building Blocks for the Season Ahead
Ultimately, this NHL preseason clash between the Blue Jackets and Penguins offered more than just highlights; it provided crucial insights into both teams. For Pittsburgh, it was about continuing to build momentum, integrating new strategies, and ensuring their star players are in peak form. For Columbus, it was an opportunity for their young guns to shine and for Merzļikins to solidify his position as a cornerstone goaltender.
These games are the crucible where team dynamics are forged, special teams are refined, and individual players stake their claim. The execution of plays, the battle for loose pucks, and the relentless drive to score—all contribute to a “good feeling” that teams carry into the demanding NHL season. The early successes and challenges faced in this NHL preseason game set the stage for what promises to be an exciting year for both the Blue Jackets and the Penguins.
Face-Off with Your Questions: Blue Jackets vs. Penguins Preseason Highlights Q&A
What is the NHL preseason?
The NHL preseason consists of exhibition games played before the regular hockey season officially begins. These games allow teams to prepare and fine-tune their strategies.
Which teams played in the NHL Preseason game highlighted in the article?
The article highlights a game between the Columbus Blue Jackets and the Pittsburgh Penguins, which took place on September 27, 2025.
Who was a standout player for the Columbus Blue Jackets in this game?
Goaltender Elvis Merzļikins was a major standout for the Blue Jackets, performing like a ‘brick wall’ and making many dazzling saves against Pittsburgh’s offense.
What contributions did the Pittsburgh Penguins’ veteran players make?
Veteran players like Sidney Crosby scored a goal to tie the game, and Ricard Rakell scored on the power play and an empty net, showcasing their consistent offensive threats.
Why are preseason games important for hockey teams?
Preseason games are important opportunities for both veterans and prospects to fine-tune their game, integrate new strategies, build team chemistry, and make an impression before the regular season starts.
