Eye test be damned, Zach Werenski is playing at an elite level for the Blue Jackets

Curtis Deem of Union and Blue argues that Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski is performing at an elite level despite criticism over his early-season eye test. Although social media criticism has highlighted Werenski looking casual or fatigued, he is tied for the team lead with six assists through seven games. His contributions account for over a third of Columbus's total offense, alongside a team-best plus-7 rating.

Deem notes that head coach Rick Bowness is heavily relying on Werenski due to blue line injuries, resulting in an NHL-leading average ice time of 29:22 per game. Additionally, Werenski is starting 18.7% of his shifts in the defensive zone. Deem expects Werenski's minutes and burden to normalize once injured defenseman Ivan Provorov returns.