Playing without Matthew Tkachuk, a star power forward, the Panthers (39-21-3) helped Bobrovsky cruise to the 48th shutout of his career and fourth of the season, showing why they’re leading the Atlantic Division with 81 points as the defending Stanley Cup champions.

Elvis Merzlikins made 33 saves for the Blue Jackets (30-24-8), who lost their second straight and were outscored 9-2 during their two-game Florida trip. They lost 6-2 at the Tampa Bay Lightning on Tuesday to end a four-game winning streak.

Panthers' imposing defense leaves Blue Jackets little room, forcing Merzlikins to dazzle while keeping it close: 4 takeaways