Zach Werenski, a name once synonymous with promise, is now cemented in the annals of hockey history as a champion. His journey from a high draft pick to a franchise cornerstone for the Columbus Blue Jackets has culminated in a period of dominance, both in the NHL and on the world stage, that is nothing short of legendary. This is the verified and corrected story of his ascent.
The Foundation: A Norris-Caliber Season
The hockey world was put on notice during the 2024-25 season. In a tour-de-force campaign, Zach Werenski established himself as one of the league’s truly elite players. He shattered single-season franchise records for a defenseman with 23 goals, 59 assists, and 82 points in 81 games. His performance earned him his first-ever nomination as a finalist for the James Norris Memorial Trophy. He led the entire league in average ice time, skating a remarkable 26:45 per night, proving his indispensable value to his team.
Gold, Part I: 2025 World Championship
Carrying the momentum from his breakout NHL season, Werenski was a leader for Team USA at the 2025 IIHF Men’s World Championship. He was instrumental in guiding the Americans to a historic gold medal, their first at the event since 1933. Across seven games, he posted 1 goal and 5 assists for 6 points with an exceptional +9 rating. His stellar two-way play earned him the Best Defenseman award of the tournament and a vote to the Media All-Star Team.
A Historic Season and a New Voice
Werenski’s 2025-26 campaign has been one for the ages. Before the league paused for the Olympic break, he had already amassed a stunning 20 goals and 42 assists for 62 points in just 52 games, putting him on a record-setting pace. A mid-season coaching change that brought veteran Rick Bowness behind the bench provided a new voice and structure, and the team responded immediately. Werenski’s already elite game found another gear, and he led the Blue Jackets on a surge up the standings just before the international tournament.
The Pinnacle: 2026 Olympic Gold
The crowning moment of Werenski’s career came in February 2026 at the Winter Olympics in Milan. He was a vital cog in a dominant Team USA that captured the gold medal, its first since the iconic “Miracle on Ice” 46 years prior. In the gold medal game against Canada, it was Werenski who made the now-legendary “Golden Assist” on the game-winning goal in overtime. He finished the tournament with 1 goal and 5 assists in 6 games and was tied for the team lead with a +8 rating, cementing his legacy as a champion at the highest level of the sport.
The Mission Ahead: The Playoff Push
Returning from Milan with a gold medal around his neck, Werenski’s mission is now singular: leading the Columbus Blue Jackets back to the Stanley Cup Playoffs. With the team energized by its recent success and its leader playing the best hockey of his career, the stage is set for a thrilling final stretch of the season. His quest for the Norris Trophy continues, but more importantly, his leadership will be the driving force as Columbus fights for a coveted playoff spot, aiming to turn a historic individual season into a memorable team triumph.
