The Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski has been awarded the prestigious Norris Trophy, recognizing him as the NHL’s top defenseman. This accolade marks a significant milestone not only for Werenski but also for the Blue Jackets, as it is the first time in franchise history that a player has received this honor.
Zach Werenski’s Historic Achievement
At 28 years of age, Werenski has stood out in the league, notably beating out fellow finalists Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche and Rasmus Dahlin of the Buffalo Sabres. Over the course of 75 games this season, the Grosse Pointe, Michigan native recorded an impressive 22 goals and 59 assists, amassing a total of 81 points. This performance ranked him second among all NHL defensemen, trailing only Edmonton’s Evan Bouchard in scoring.
Record-Breaking Performance
Zach Werenski has established himself as the all-time leader for the Blue Jackets in goals, assists, and total points. He became the sixth American to win the Norris Trophy, securing top-five votes on 194 of 198 ballots. His voting tally included an impressive 113 first-place selections, culminating in 1,589 total points.
Key Statistics and Accomplishments
- Games Played: 75
- Goals: 22
- Assists: 59
- Total Points: 81
- Norris Trophy Points: 1,589
- First-Place Votes: 113
Notable Moments
Werenski enjoyed a career-high nine-game point streak in late January and early February, which played a critical role in the Blue Jackets’ late-season performance. Although they ultimately fell short of playoff qualification, his contributions were significant. In addition to his NHL success, he represented the United States and won an Olympic gold medal in Milan in February.
Final Standings for Norris Trophy Voting
| Position | Player | Total Points |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Zach Werenski | 1,589 |
| 2 | Cale Makar | 1,191 |
| 3 | Rasmus Dahlin | 657 |
| 4 | Evan Bouchard | 593 |
| 5 | Lane Hutson | 357 |
With this honor, Zach Werenski not only cements his legacy within the Blue Jackets but also as a standout player in the NHL. His achievements this season set a high bar for future competitions, demonstrating his exemplary skills as a defenseman.
