The Unwavering Excellence of Zach Werenski
In a recent podcast interview, Dean Evason, the Columbus Blue Jackets' coach, praised his top defenseman, Zach Werenski, for his exceptional performance and leadership qualities. Evason's admiration for Werenski is evident, but here's where it gets controversial: he believes Werenski is not just great, but among the top defenders in the world.
When Evason first met Werenski, the latter set the tone for their relationship. "He said, 'Push me, I need it,'" Evason recalled. And true to his word, Werenski has delivered consistently, amassing an impressive 108 points in just 107 games under Evason's coaching.
But it's not just about the stats. Evason highlights Werenski's ability to drive the team's culture and lead by example. "He's consistently great every night," Evason said. "And this is the part most people miss - his skill set is not just about scoring or setting up plays; his defensive prowess is top-notch too."
Evason also appreciates Werenski's ability to hold his teammates accountable without being overbearing. "He speaks when it matters, and when he does, everyone listens," Evason added.
In addition to Werenski's individual excellence, Evason praised the team's overall resilience and positivity this season, despite facing challenges. The Blue Jackets have had their fair share of setbacks, including surrendering leads in the third period on multiple occasions. However, Evason believes the team's positive mindset will pay off, and perhaps the recent win against the New Jersey Devils is a turning point.
So, what do you think? Is Werenski truly among the world's top defenders? Or is Evason's praise a bit too glowing? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!
