Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski has declined the offer to play for Team USA at the 2025 World Championships in May.

After an impressive season with the Blue Jackets that saw him score 23 goals, 59 assists for a total of 82 points. The team unfortunately fell short and wrapped things up earlier than he would’ve liked. Werenski has decided to take the summer off and focus on personal matters.

During his end-of-season media availability, he opened up about the decision. He cited his upcoming wedding — along with a close friend’s wedding — as the main reasons. It makes total sense. It’s already shaping up to be a packed summer for him, and adding a two-to-three-week tournament overseas would’ve only made things more hectic.

For Blue Jackets fans, they won’t get to see Werenski suit up for Team USA this spring. But there’s still a chance other players could represent their countries.

So far, no one else from the team has confirmed whether they’ll accept or decline invites — but we might see a few Jackets playing overseas next month.

Thank You From The Hockey News Columbus Team Thank You, Columbus!

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