Zach Werenski, defenseman for the Columbus Blue Jackets, is entering the Milan Cortina Olympics with significant momentum after a standout NHL season. The 28-year-old from Grosse Pointe, Michigan, currently holds a point streak in seven consecutive games and has become the first defenseman to score 20 goals before the Olympic break, firmly establishing himself as a key figure for Team USA.
Historic Achievements and NHL Milestones
Werenski marked his 20th goal of the season early in the Blue Jackets’ 4-0 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks, a milestone that places him alongside NHL legends Phil Housley and Reed Larson as the only American defensemen with back-to-back 20-goal campaigns. Beyond goals, Werenski has amassed 62 points this season—20 goals and 42 assists—setting a new record for most points by a defenseman before the Olympic hiatus, surpassing Mike Green’s previous total of 60 points with the Washington Capitals prior to the 2010 Vancouver Games.
Confidence and Versatility on the Ice
Reflecting on his recent success, Werenski emphasized his readiness and adaptability for the Olympic challenge, saying,
“I feel like I can kind of do anything that I’m asked of,”
and added,
“And it’s important in a tournament like that where you have guys coming together in a short amount of time, you have to accept the role you’re given and the minutes you’re given. I feel like I’m ready for whatever they give me.”
His confidence stems from prior international experience, notably last year’s 4 Nations Face-Off, where Werenski led all players in assists and points, an unprecedented feat for a defenseman in NHL-sanctioned international tournaments including the Canada Cup and World Cup of Hockey.
He also credited his improved defensive play under coach Rick Bowness:
“I feel like I’m playing probably some of the best defensive hockey I’ve played in a long time, which is important since Bones (coach Rick Bowness) has gotten here to kind of clean up that area,”
Werenski stated.
“The offense is still coming. So yeah, I feel really good about my game.”
Preparing for Milan: Early Arrival and Olympic Aspirations
Werenski plans to arrive in Milan early, opting to get acclimated before the opening ceremony on Friday. Inspired by the Netflix documentary Miracle: The Boys of ’80, which explores past Olympic journeys, he decided against resting at home to fully embrace the Olympic experience.
“At first, I kind of thought it would be nice to get a few days rest here, but this is once in a lifetime and I want to be there for it and I want to experience everything I can,”
he said.
“I felt like getting there a few days early wouldn’t hurt to get acclimated, either, to the time zone and I can rest a few days there and get on that schedule and just enjoy everything it has to offer.”
Team Representation and Support Within Columbus Blue Jackets
Werenski will not be the only Columbus Blue Jackets player competing in Milan. Goaltender Elvis Merzlikins will represent Latvia, which is set to face the United States early in the tournament. Werenski expressed admiration and good wishes for his teammate, stating,
“Honestly, I hope he goes over there and has an unbelievable tournament and shows everyone how good of a goalie he is. I’m rooting for him. Obviously not against the U.S., but I hope he plays great. When we’re playing him, it’s all business, but when we’re not, I’m a fan of his.”
Columbus Blue Jackets’ Surge Before Olympic Break
The Blue Jackets have carried strong momentum into the Olympic break with a seven-game winning streak and an impressive 10-1 record since Rick Bowness took over as head coach from Dean Evason on January 12. This turnaround has lifted Columbus from last place in the Eastern Conference to just two points shy of a playoff spot, reflecting the team’s renewed focus and resilience.
Despite his excitement to represent the United States, Werenski is equally eager to return to his club and continue building on their recent success:
“As excited as I am to go to Milan and represent our country in the Olympics, I’m close to equally excited to get back here and get back with the guys already,”
he remarked.
“It’s something special in here and we’ve put in the hard work recently and we’re getting rewarded for it.”
Looking Forward: Olympic Impact and Future Prospects
Zach Werenski arrives at the Olympics with a rare combination of offensive firepower and defensive reliability, making him a vital asset for Team USA’s ambitions in Milan. His historic scoring pace and adaptability highlight not only his individual growth but also the confidence placed in him by coaches and teammates alike. His preparation and mindset suggest he is ready to meet the pressures of high-stakes international competition.
For the Columbus Blue Jackets, Werenski’s performance reflects a promising team trajectory as the NHL season resumes post-Olympics. His blend of leadership, skill, and experience will likely influence both his national team’s prospects and his club’s playoff aspirations in the months ahead.
