Zach Werenski's Breakout Season Fuels Blue Jackets' Playoff Hopes

As the NHL regular season reaches its climax, the Columbus Blue Jackets find themselves in an improbable position - fighting for a playoff spot. At the heart of this surprising campaign stands defenseman Zach Werenski, who has elevated his game to elite status while helping the team navigate an emotionally challenging season.

From Doubt to Dominance

Werenski's transformation into a Norris Trophy contender has been remarkable:

• 74 points in 75 games, trailing only Cale Makar among NHL defensemen
• Leads all blueliners in 5-on-5 scoring per 60 minutes (42 points)
• Set franchise record for career assists (260+), passing Rick Nash
• Earned 48% of first-place Norris votes in recent PHWA poll

"I'd be lying if I said I thought Werenski would be having this good of a year," admitted GM Don Waddell. "Without him, I don't know where we'd be."

Overcoming Adversity On and Off the Ice

The Blue Jackets' season has been shadowed by tragedy after the deaths of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau last August. The team has honored their memory throughout the season:

• Players regularly wear Gaudreau's hoodies to the rink
• His jersey remains displayed in the locker room
• The emotional bond has strengthened team chemistry

"We know how much he's impacted this organization," Werenski said. "We try to honor him by playing hard and enjoying the game."

The Health Factor

Werenski's resurgence follows significant changes to his training regimen:

"I've realized it takes more work to be ready now than at 21," said the 27-year-old. "These are preventable injuries I'm finally avoiding."

International Success and Future Aspirations

Werenski's stellar season earned him a spot on Team USA's 4 Nations Face-Off roster, where he:

• Led all defensemen with 6 points in 4 games
• Stepped up after Charlie McAvoy's injury
• Gained confidence for potential 2026 Olympic selection

"I left there knowing I can play at this level," Werenski said of the tournament experience.

The Playoff Push

With games dwindling, Columbus remains in the Eastern Conference wild card hunt despite:

• Key injuries to Boone Jenner (56 games), Erik Gudbranson (66 games)
• Tough losses to Colorado and Montreal in the final stretch
• Need for other results to fall their way

"Our mindset changes after this season," Werenski said. "Next year, we're coming to camp expecting to make playoffs."

A Franchise Cornerstone

As the Blue Jackets' highest-paid player ($9.58M AAV), Werenski has embraced his leadership role:

• Mentoring young stars like Adam Fantilli and Kent Johnson
• Setting new performance standards for the organization
• Helping establish a winning culture in Columbus

"This isn't a fluke," Werenski stated. "This is my standard now for how I impact games."

Whether or not the Blue Jackets complete their Cinderella run this season, Werenski's emergence as a true #1 defenseman has given the franchise renewed hope for the future - exactly the legacy Johnny Gaudreau would have wanted to see.