Blue Jackets’ Zach Werenski wins Norris Trophy as NHL’s best defender
Columbus Blue Jackets defenceman Zach Werenski has won the Norris Trophy as the NHL’s top all-around player at his position following a stellar regular season.
The 28-year-old finished ahead of Colorado Avalanche star Cale Makar and Buffalo Sabres blue-liner Rasmus Dahlin in the final voting.
Makar was seeking his third Norris Trophy, while this marks a maiden victory for the Michigan native after finishing as runner-up during the 2025-26 campaign.
Members of the Professional Hockey Writers Association vote on the award at the conclusion of the regular season.
The franchise record-holder was surprised with the accolade during a family gathering as part of a new league initiative to create viral moments.
Offensive dominance drives historic win
The American enjoyed an outstanding offensive campaign, registering 22 goals and 59 assists for 81 points.
He averaged 26 minutes and 37 seconds of ice time per game, representing the second-highest workload in the league.
The standout blueliner finished second overall in points by a defenceman and tied for the league lead in even-strength goals at his position alongside Washington’s Jakob Chychrun.
Olympic gold caps milestone year
This accolade arrives during his 10th season in the league, all of which have been spent representing Columbus.
He is already the all-time assists leader for the Blue Jackets with 330 and sits second in total points for the Ohio-based organisation.
Securing the NHL’s top defensive honour completes a remarkable calendar year for the defenceman, who recently won Olympic men’s hockey gold with Team USA at the Milan Cortina Games in February.
He becomes only the sixth American player in history to be named the league’s best defenceman.
Bouchard misses out despite points lead
Edmonton Oilers standout Evan Bouchard narrowly missed out on a finalist spot, finishing fourth in the voting despite leading all defencemen with 95 points in 82 games.
Meanwhile, New York Islanders sensation and NHL rookie of the year Matthew Schaefer appeared on eight ballots to finish 12th overall.