Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski is set to play his 600th NHL game on Tuesday night against the Anaheim Ducks at Nationwide Arena. This achievement places him as the fourth Blue Jackets player to hit this mark, following Boone Jenner, Rick Nash, and Cam Atkinson. Despite the personal milestone, Werenski prioritizes team success amid a five-game losing streak.
Milestone Achievement
Zach Werenski's upcoming 600th NHL game highlights his enduring commitment to the Columbus Blue Jackets. Selected eighth overall in the 2015 NHL Draft, Werenski developed quickly after a season at the University of Michigan. He joined the Lake Erie Monsters, contributing to their 2016 Calder Cup victory, before debuting in the NHL during the 2016-17 season.
In his rookie year, Werenski recorded 11 goals and 47 points, aiding the Blue Jackets to a franchise-record 108 points under coach John Tortorella and a playoff appearance. Over his career, injuries have occasionally sidelined him, but he has consistently rebounded. Entering this game, Werenski has 122 goals and 417 points in 599 games. He is one goal away from his 10th of the season, which would mark his eighth campaign with double-digit goals.
Werenski's recent form has been exceptional, with a 10-game point streak at home and a second-place finish in the 2024-25 Norris Trophy voting. His decision to sign a long-term extension amid team changes underscores his loyalty to Columbus. Off the ice, his community efforts have further cemented his status as the franchise's top defenseman.
Team Context
The Blue Jackets, currently 13-13-6 and last in the Eastern Conference, have not reached the playoffs since the 2020 bubble. Werenski, fresh off a gold medal with Team USA at the Men's World Championships, emphasized his desire to win in Columbus. He views individual milestones as secondary to breaking the team's skid and pushing for postseason contention as the holiday break nears.
Werenski's team-first approach defines his career. While the 600th game is noteworthy, his focus remains on collective performance against the Ducks.