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    Jason Newland
    Feb 21, 2025, 12:33
    Zach Werenski Battles Connor McDavid (Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images)

    Zach Werenski, defenseman for the Columbus Blue Jackets just had himself an unreal 4-Nations Face-Off Tournament, and it's possible that he put the world on notice that he has arrived. 

    Last night, his United States team lost to Canada in overtime, but Werenski can come home with his head held high. He made his country, CBJ fans, and his team in Columbus proud. 

    So how did he do? The 27-year-old from Michigan posted the following stats:

    • 6 assists - Led all skaters in points and assists. The closest defenseman was Erik Karlsson who had 3 points. He beat out Sidney Crosby and Connor McDavid who had 5 points each.
    • 13 Shots On Goal - Tied Jake Guentzel and finished only 2 shots behind Brady Tkachuk and Nathan MacKinnon. The closest defenseman was Colton Parayko who had 6 shots.
    • Averaged 20:42 TOI
    • Plus-3 Rating - Tied with six other players, finishing in second.
    • Registered a point in all four games played.

    Hopefully, the hockey world opened their eyes to what Zach Werenski is all about. He played great and deserves more attention from the NHL. He's a legit Norris Trophy Candidate, and if he can keep up this pace to finish the year, he should be holding that trophy at the NHL Awards after the season. 

    People in Columbus have been banging on the Zach Werenski drum for years, now it's time for the rest of the hockey world to do the same. 

    Congrats to Zach Werenski and Team USA on a great tournament run. 

    Let us know your thoughts on Zach Werenski's 4-Nation's performance below. 

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