Zach Werenski named winner of James Norris Memorial Trophy

Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski won the James Norris Memorial Trophy as the NHL's top defenseman for the 2025-26 season, becoming the first player in franchise history to receive the award. The 28-year-old recorded 22 goals and 59 assists for 81 points in 75 games, leading all NHL defensemen in multi-point efforts, even-strength goals (tied), and shots on goal. The other finalists were Colorado's Cale Makar and Buffalo's Rasmus Dahlin.