NHL defenseman Zach Werenski wins the James Norris Memorial Trophy, receives award during a surprise family gathering at home

Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski has won the first James Norris Memorial Trophy of his NHL career, beating Colorado Avalanche star Cale Makar and Buffalo Sabres captain Rasmus Dahlin to claim the league's top honor as a defenseman. Shortly after winning the trophy, the player received a memorable surprise as his loved ones gathered to celebrate a landmark achievement in his NHL career during a regular BBQ party at his home.

As per NHL reports, the 28-year-old player finished the season with 81 points, 22 goals, and 59 assists. He has a shot of 260, and ranked second in average ice time of 26:37. The blueliner also led the Blue Jackets in scoring for the second straight season, becoming the 10th defenseman in NHL history to do so. His track record shows that he rightly deserved to win the much-coveted trophy this year.

Zack Werenski’s regular family gathering turned into a surprise Norris Trophy celebration

As Columbus Blue Jackets star Zach Werenski has won the Norris Trophy for the first time in his career, his win turned into a celebration with a heartwarming family surprise. The defenseman who led the Columbus Blue Jackets in scoring for the second straight season received a memorable surprise as his loved ones gathered to celebrate the landmark achievement in his NHL career.

According to the NHL, Werenski loves hosting family get-togethers with his extended family each Sunday of the offseason at his house, about a 10-minute walk from where he grew up near Detroit. They barbecue, splash in the pool, play hoops, and watch golf. The family took this opportunity to celebrate his win.


What began as a regular family BBQ gathering quickly transformed into an emotional tribute recognizing one of the league's top blueliners. In a video posted by the NHL, Werenski was seen receiving the trophy at his home, gathered by his loved ones. He was joined by his wife, Odette, their newborn baby, Hudson, his brother Brad, along with Zach’s parents and other extended family members.

After receiving the award, Zach stated, "I'm at a loss for words, to be honest with you, guys. It's incredible.” He further thanked his family for the surprise and later acknowledged the efforts of the people behind this achievement, "I mean, I wouldn't be here without them. Obviously, in a sense, it's an individual award. But without them, without my teammates, without a great support staff and system, I wouldn't be in this position, and I know that. For them to be here today and enjoy this with me, it means everything."

It is to be noted that the Blue Jackets defenseman received first-place votes on 113 of 198 ballots, 66 more than Colorado Avalanche star Cale Makar, who finished second, while Buffalo Sabres captain Rasmus Dahlin finished third, as reported by The Hockey News.

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