Zach Werenski lived out a dream that many hockey players only fantasize about. He played a pivotal role in Team U.S.A.'s triumph at the Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, delivering what some are calling “the golden apple” with his crucial pass to Jack Hughes. That moment will echo through hockey history.
Back in Columbus, the Blue Jackets are back on the ice, gearing up for their season restart. They're set to face the Boston Bruins at T.D. Garden on Thursday night-a game with significant implications.
The gold medal game coincided with the Blue Jackets' mini training camp, and head coach Rick Bowness had a plan in place. As the game wrapped up, goaltender Elvis Merzlikins was already on the ice for practice, demonstrating the team's commitment.
Despite a predominantly Canadian locker room, the Blue Jackets were united in their support for Werenski. While the Canadians naturally rooted for their home country, Werenski's achievement brought a silver lining that everyone could celebrate.
Werenski’s success is more than just a personal victory; it’s a potential catalyst for the Blue Jackets as they eye a playoff push. The excitement is palpable, and the team is ready to channel this momentum.
Blue Jackets React to Werenski’s Gold Medal
Throughout the week, we caught up with several Blue Jackets players to get their thoughts on Werenski’s performance and what it means for the team.
Elvis Merzlikins was thrilled for Werenski, saying, “I really cheered for him. Even with so many Canadians on the team, I was all for my teammate.
We had some fun with it, but I’m proud of him. He deserves it.”
Charlie Coyle added, “We were all hoping Z would make a big play, and he did. It was an awesome game to watch, and we Americans in the room couldn’t be happier.”
Canadian players Cole Sillinger and Jet Greaves also shared their excitement. Sillinger, a dual citizen, said, “I consider myself Canadian, but when a teammate is in the game, you root for him. It was one of the most exciting games in a while.”
Greaves echoed the sentiment, “Watching Z make that play was incredible. We all respect him so much, and it’s a moment that’ll be remembered forever. I’m super proud of him.”
Ready & Confident Moving Forward
Werenski’s Olympic success has him fired up for the rest of the season, and his teammates are equally motivated.
Merzlikins, who also played in the Olympics, is eager to translate that experience into success with the Blue Jackets. “Get to the playoffs,” he emphasized. “We have something special here, and I’m ready to get back to work.”
Sillinger added, “We’re eager to return. We’ve had solid practices, and now it’s time to play some exciting hockey.”
Greaves noted the team’s urgency, “We know we can’t rest on past positives. We have to come prepared, earn wins, and play good hockey down the stretch.”
With Werenski back and the team’s confidence high, the Blue Jackets are poised for a strong finish. They’ll play their final 26 games over the next 48 days, and they’re ready to make every one count. The stage is set-let the games begin.