Columbus Blue Jackets’ alternate captain Zach Werenski was nominated by the Columbus chapter of the Professional Hockey Writers Associate on Friday afternoon. The Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy is given to the player who has best demonstrated perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey. The winner will be decided at the end of the regular season and announced at the 2024 NHL Awards.
Zach Werenski has missed many games in his career due to injury. During the 2023-24 season home opener, a knee-to-knee collision left Werenski injured for two games. In December 2023 he suffered an ankle injury that sidelined him ten games. In the 2022-23 NHL Season, he only played in 13 games after he injured his shoulder and needed surgery. Through all of that, he has returned each season as a better player.
In addition to returning from injuries, Werenski has shown he’s a team leader. He was named an alternate captain for the 2021-22 season. In interviews, he is analytical and forthcoming with what went right or wrong. He displays confidence and has matured during his 8-year tenure with the Blue Jackets. On the ice, he has shown respect for teammates and opponents alike.
Werenski has been dedicated to the Columbus Blue Jackets and is near the top of many franchise statistics:
- Games played: 10th, 480
- Goals: 9th, 86
- Assists: 2nd, 208
- Points: 6th, 294
No Columbus Blue Jacket has received the Masterton Trophy since the team’s inception in 2000. I believe Zach Werenski exhibits the qualities the trophy represents and has a great chance of receiving the award. He has displayed perseverance to overcome injury. His sportsmanship is apparent in many games as he treats others with respect. His dedication to the game is admirable as he has stayed at the top of his game and the Blue Jackets’ stats despite his time away.
The Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy winner will be announced at this year’s NHL Awards on June 26, 2024.
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