Dmitry Voronkov of the Columbus Blue Jackets opened the scoring in the NHL season opener against the Buffalo Sabres, delivering a timely breakthrough that set the tone for the game at Nationwide Arena in Columbus.
In a period marked by a strong start from Columbus, Voronkov found the back of the net in the 13th minute of the first period. He was assisted by fellow Russian teammates Kirill Marchenko and Ivan Provorov, who combined to keep the momentum on Columbus’ side as the home crowd roared.
For Voronkov, the goal represented the 15th tally of his rookie NHL season. It also placed him alongside a select group of Columbus players who achieved the feat of reaching 15 goals within their first 50 games with the franchise. Marchenko had already set that benchmark by reaching 20 goals in his first 50 appearances for the Blue Jackets, highlighting the club’s early success in integrating Russian talent into the lineup.
Voronkov signed a two-year entry-level contract with the Blue Jackets on May 4, 2023, marking the start of a significant chapter in his professional career. He notched his first NHL goal on October 30, 2023, a milestone that confirmed his transition from the Kontinental Hockey League to North American competition. Before arriving in Columbus, Voronkov built his development in Russia with Ak Bars and also played for junior and professional stints with Ermak, Bars, and Irbis, experiences that helped shape his two-way game and scoring instincts on the bigger ice.
The clash between the Blue Jackets and the Sabres continued with the teams tied at 1-1 as the second period opened. The arena buzzed with anticipation as both clubs sought to seize control, trading chances and tightening defensive coverage. Columbus pressed to extend a lead, while Buffalo pushed back with quick counter-attacks and sustained pressure, turning the matchup into a test of attrition and execution through the middle frame.
Adding context to the team’s season, a former coach of the Russian national team referenced the ongoing discussion around major point-scoring marks in the sport. The comment touched on the topics of individual records and the broader landscape of legacy in hockey,—from the pursuit of Gretzky’s historic totals to the challengers who are reshaping the record book today. The discourse underscored how contemporary players balance personal milestones with team performance, especially when integrating international talent into a franchise’s core identity.