Blue Jackets' Zach Werenski Beats Makar And Dahlin To Win NHL's Norris Trophy
Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski has won the James Norris Memorial Trophy.
Werenski was surprised by the trophy while he and his wife, Odette, hosted friends and family to introduce everyone to their new baby.
The newly crowned defenseman of the year received first-place votes on 113 of 198 ballots, 66 more than Colorado Avalanche star Cale Makar, who finished second. Buffalo Sabres captain Rasmus Dahlin finished third in the voting.
Zach Werenski became the 10th defenseman in NHL history to lead his club in scoring in consecutive seasons and did so in a campaign in which he tied the franchise record for assists (one he already shared with Artemi Panarin). #NHLStats#NHLAwardspic.twitter.com/UIYyldxeF8
— NHL Public Relations (@NHLPR) June 2, 2026
Werenski, 28, finished the season second in points by a defenseman (81), tied for third in goals (22), tied for fourth in assists (59), first in shots (260) and second in average ice time (26:37). He led the Blue Jackets in scoring for the second straight season, becoming the 10th defenseman in NHL history to do so.
Werenski also averaged the second-most ice time at 5-on-5, and he had an impressive shot attempt percentage. Among defensemen who averaged at least 19 minutes at 5-on-5, Werenski ranks first in shot attempt percentage, at 53.8 percent, meaning the Blue Jackets outchanced their opponents with Werenski on the ice.
More to come.
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This story was originally published June 2, 2026 at 8:38 AM.