Quick Read
- Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski scored a crucial overtime assist for Team USA.
- Team USA defeated Canada 2-1 to win Olympic men’s hockey gold at Milano Cortina 2026.
- This marks the first U.S. Olympic men’s hockey gold since 1980 and first with NHL players since 1998.
- Werenski’s five points tied a Blue Jackets franchise record for Olympic performance.
- The U.S. team honored the late Johnny Gaudreau, a former Blue Jackets star, throughout the tournament.
MILAN, ITALY (Azat TV) – Columbus Blue Jackets star defenseman Zach Werenski played a pivotal role in Team USA’s historic men’s hockey gold medal victory at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, delivering a crucial overtime assist that secured a 2-1 win over archrival Canada. Werenski’s achievement on February 22 not only ended a 46-year gold medal drought for the U.S. men’s program but also brought significant recognition and pride to the Columbus Blue Jackets organization.
The dramatic conclusion unfolded in 3-on-3 overtime at Milano Santagiulia Arena. Despite limited ice time throughout the game, Werenski’s hustle proved decisive. He dispossessed Canadian forward Nathan MacKinnon of the Colorado Avalanche, then wheeled to find Jack Hughes with a perfect pass. Hughes capitalized on the opportunity, beating Canadian goalie Jordan Binnington under the pads just 1:41 into the extra frame, clinching the gold medal for the United States.
Historic Olympic Gold for Team USA
This victory marked the first Olympic gold medal for the U.S. men’s hockey team since the legendary 1980 ‘Miracle on Ice’ squad and the first time the U.S. has won at the Olympics since NHL players began participating in 1998. The game itself was a tightly contested affair, with Minnesota Wild forward Matt Boldy opening the scoring for the U.S. in the first period. Canada’s Cale Makar, a defenseman for the Colorado Avalanche, later tied the game in the second period, capping a dominant offensive surge by the Canadians. U.S. goaltender Connor Hellebuyck was a standout performer, making 41 saves to keep his team in the game, particularly during Canada’s sustained pressure.
Blue Jackets Pride and Teammate Support
Werenski’s teammates back in Columbus expressed immense pride and excitement over his performance. Fellow defenseman Erik Gudbranson noted the ‘win-win’ scenario, happy for Canada if they won, but even more so for his teammate. ‘If the U.S. wins and our boy brings back a gold medal, that’s awesome, too,’ Gudbranson told NHL.com. Blue Jackets Captain Boone Jenner echoed this sentiment, praising Werenski’s tournament performance. ‘What a tournament he’s had. It’s incredible watching him. I’m so happy for him,’ Jenner stated, highlighting Werenski’s three points in the semifinal game.
Werenski’s five points throughout the Milano Cortina 2026 Games tied the Blue Jackets’ franchise record for most points by a player at an Olympic Games, a mark previously held by Rick Nash in 2010. This individual success reflects positively on the Blue Jackets’ player development and the quality of talent within their roster.
Honoring Johnny Gaudreau’s Legacy
The U.S. Olympic team also carried a poignant connection to the Columbus Blue Jackets through the memory of star forward Johnny Gaudreau, who passed away in August 2024. Gaudreau was a longtime fixture on Team USA squads at various levels and would have been an integral part of the Olympic roster. In a gesture of honor, USA Hockey invited Gaudreau’s parents, Guy and Jane, his wife Meredith, and their children to Milan to witness the gold medal game. Werenski himself spoke about the significance of Gaudreau’s jersey hanging in the team’s locker room, emphasizing the close bond with his family and the importance of honoring his memory and legacy. This connection provided an emotional backdrop to the team’s historic run, further intertwining the Blue Jackets with Team USA’s success.
Looking Ahead for Columbus Blue Jackets
The triumph of Zach Werenski on the international stage provides a significant boost to the Columbus Blue Jackets organization, fostering a sense of pride and positive momentum as the NHL season continues. The team is scheduled to play its next game against the Boston Bruins on February 26th at 7 p.m. EST, with the organization and fanbase undoubtedly energized by their star defenseman’s Olympic glory.
Werenski’s gold medal serves as a powerful testament to individual excellence, offering a beacon of positive recognition that resonates beyond the Olympic stage and strengthens the collective morale of the Columbus Blue Jackets.