A Milestone Season for the Blue Jackets
Zach Werenski’s name etched itself into Columbus Blue Jackets lore during the 2025‑26 campaign, as the defenseman was selected to the NHL’s First All‑Star Team for the second straight year.
The league recognized his dominance by awarding him the James Norris Memorial Trophy, honoring the best defenseman in the league, a distinction that underscores his status among the elite blueliners.
Werenski’s impact extended beyond personal accolades; he paced the Blue Jackets in goals, assists and overall points, while also topping the franchise record books for multi‑point outings in a single season.
His 22 goals and 59 assists translated to 81 points, a tally that placed him among the most prolific American defensemen in league history.
The performance marked his fifth 80‑point season, making him the fifth U.S.-born defenseman to achieve multiple such campaigns and the third American to record consecutive 20‑goal seasons.
The Blue Jackets’ all‑time leader in assists, Werenski also ranks high in points, games played, shots on goal and goals in franchise history, cementing his legacy as the team’s most prolific defenseman.
Selected by Columbus in the first round of the 2015 NHL Draft, Werenski’s ascent reflects the club’s commitment to developing home‑grown talent, a trajectory that began in his native Michigan.
A Legacy in the Making
Beyond the statistics, Werenski’s influence is felt in the locker room and on the ice, where his leadership and defensive acumen have set a standard for teammates and opponents alike.
As the Blue Jackets look toward future seasons, the organization anticipates that his continued excellence will drive sustained competitiveness and fan engagement.