Throughout the 2000s, the 5th Line was treated to something really special. The Blue Jackets had one of the best players in the league, and I'm not sure it was fully appreciated. Now, we are seeing it in action again with Zach Werenski. We are treated to one of the franchise's best players each and every night.
It will be 14 years next month, since the team traded Rick Nash to the New York Rangers in one of the biggest blockbuster deals in franchise history. Despite having two full builds come through Columbus, Rick still holds most of this fledgling team's records.
At the top of that list: career points. Rick scored 547 points in 674 games in the Union Blue (he sits with the second most games played, behind Boone Jenner's 808). For the first time since the Nasher potted his last point (a goal scored in his final game with the Jackets, April 7th, 2012), we'll head into next season with this points record within reach.
Zach Werenski is getting close.
After posting 82 and 81 points over the past two seasons, Zach Werenski finds himself within striking distance of the CBJ franchise scoring record. In fact, he's roughly that far away-82 points would tie the mark.
He has spent his entire career with the Blue Jackets to this point, posting 135 goals (5th in franchise history), 330 assists (1st), and 465 points (2nd) in 642 games played (3rd). He's just 32 games behind Nash for second in the games played category.
If Zach can have another big season, he'll pass Rick in two of the most meaningful stat categories there are. I'm confident that he can do it, because it feels like this team is being geared towards something special. And Zach will be the man leading the charge.
The reigning Norris Trophy winner has unfinished business.
Despite winning the Norris Trophy this season (and finishing as the runner-up last season), Zach Werenski has some unfinished business with the Blue Jackets.
Throw those trade request rumors right into the bin where they belong. I'll make the bold prediction that, not only will Zach be on this team next season-he'll be their captain. And, he will be highly motivated to drag this team into the playoffs.
If both of those things happen, I'll go one step further and predict that he will set the franchise record in points. He's has proven to be talented and driven enough over the last two seasons.
Next year, I expect him to have more support. And, if this team can figure out how to score on the power-play, I think they will obliterate all expectations.
Lets hope these predictions hold true. By the time it's all said and done, #8 will go down as the greatest player to ever suit up in the Union Blue.
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