What can the Blue Jackets expect from Zach Werenski this season?
With the 2026-27 season rapidly approaching, we here at The Hockey News Columbus Blue Jackets will be writing previews for each Blue Jackets player.
In this latest edition of the series, we will be taking a look defenseman Zach Werenski.
Blue Jackets' Werenski Looking to Build Off Norris Trophy Season
The 2025-26 season was undoubtedly a special season for Werenski, as he won the Norris Trophy as the NHL's best defenseman for the first time in his career. Now, the 29-year-old blueliner will be looking to build off it in 2026-27 from here.
Werenski appeared in 75 games last season for the Blue Jackets, where he recorded 22 goals, 59 assists, and 81 points. This is after he posted 23 goals and 82 points in 81 games for Columbus in 2024-25. With numbers like these, Werenski has been dominant over the last two seasons, and he certainly should be again in 2026-27.
Werenski is the Blue Jackets' top player, so if they hope to get into the playoffs this year, they will need him to stay healthy and continue to shine. It will be interesting to see what the star defenseman does for an encore this season after winning the Norris Trophy.
THN's Projected Points Totals For Werenski: 82
