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Blue Jackets' Zach Werenski Wins the Norris Trophy as the NHL's Best Defenseman
Werenski was surprised with the award after posting 22 goals and 81 points, becoming the sixth American to win the honor.
- On Tuesday, the NHL named Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski the winner of the 2026 Norris Trophy, recognizing him as the league's top all-around defenseman.
- The 28-year-old led the Professional Hockey Writers Association voting, surpassing finalists Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche and Rasmus Dahlin of the Buffalo Sabres.
- Werenski recorded 22 goals and 59 assists for 81 points in 75 games while helping Team USA win gold at the 2026 Winter Olympics, becoming the sixth American-born player to claim the award.
- The NHL announced the results on Tuesday during a surprise video visit while Werenski, his wife Odette, and their recently born son Hudson hosted a family gathering.
- Entering his 11th NHL season, Werenski remains a central figure for the Blue Jackets and may potentially gain the captain's C if current captain Boone Jenner does not re-sign.
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The prize went to a first-time entrant.
·Finland
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Which NHL star gave Blue Jackets’ Zach Werenski the belief to win the Norris Trophy?
COLUMBUS, Ohio — Zach Werenski’s name is now part of NHL history after he won the Norris Trophy on Tuesday, which is awarded to the league’s top defenseman. He became the first player in Columbus Blue Jackets history to win the award, beating out finalists Cale Makar of the Avalanche and Rasmus Dahlin of the Sabres.
·Cleveland, United States
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Zach Werenski, of the Columbus Blue Jackets, won the Norris Trophy for the first time in his career, awarded to the NHL's best defender.
·Montreal, Canada
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Associated Press News+15 Reposted by 15 other sources
Blue Jackets' Zach Werenski wins the Norris Trophy as the NHL's best defenseman
Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets has won the Norris Trophy as the NHL's best defenseman. Werenski was second in points at the position with 81 on 22 goals and 59 assists.
·New York, United States
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Total News Sources35
Leaning Left10Leaning Right3Center11Last UpdatedBias Distribution46% Center
Bias Distribution
- 46% of the sources are Center
46% Center
L 42%
C 46%
12%
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