Zach Werenski Makes History as First Columbus Blue Jacket to WIN Norris Trophy!

 I've waited years to say this: Congratulations, Zach Werenski, on winning the 2026 Norris Trophy! 

As I stated in the title, Zach's the first Columbus Blue Jacket in team history to win the honor given to the best defenseman in the NHL. We may not have made it to the playoffs at the end of our 25th season, but this honestly feels just as good! This season, Zach finished with a +/- of +7. He appeared in 75 of the Blue Jackets' 82 regular-season games, finishing with 22 goals and 59 assists for 81 points. His 59 assists this season matched the record for most by a Blue Jacket in franchise history. He had more multipoint games than any defenseman in the league this season. And, although not in the NHL, he did have the primary assist on Luke Hughes ' gold medal-winning overtime goal at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games. Winning the Norris Trophy is the perfect period to a great season for Zach, which also included becoming a dad to son Hudson a couple of weeks ago. I'm elated for Zach. He's proud to represent Columbus every single day, and I can't wait to see how his career continues to evolve in our city next season. If you haven't seen the video of Zach being surprised with the Norris Trophy, I have shared it to both my Facebook and X accounts. It's a must-watch.  

Congratulations, again, Z!

(Also, I have to be a good sport. Congratulations to Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche and Rasmus Dahlin of the Buffalo Sabres on an amazing Norris Campaign. I had no idea who would take home the trophy this season, and your incredible efforts in the playoffs had me guessing until this morning's announcement.) 


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