The NHL and NHLPA released the results of their 2024-25 player poll — always a fun look at what the players think around the league. But this year, there were some decisions that left a lot of people scratching their heads.
One of the most questionable? The results for “Best Overall Defenseman.”
As expected, Cale Makar and Quinn Hughes made the list. No real surprises there. But after them, the next three selections were:
- Victor Hedman
- Roman Josi
- Adam Fox
Now here’s where the issue comes in: Zach Werenski wasn’t on the list. Not in the top five. Not even a mention.
Look — Hedman and Josi are both outstanding and have resumes to back it up. But having Adam Fox over Werenski this season? That’s baffling.
Werenski has been near the top of the league in scoring among defensemen all year. He’s not just padding stats — he’s driving the bus for a Blue Jackets team that’s been in the playoff race deep into the season. And he’s doing it while being a complete two-way force on the back end. At this point, he’s a legit Norris Trophy finalist — and has a real case to win it.
My colleague Jason Newland said it best:
“Zach Werenski, despite having a career year and setting multiple club records, continues to be forgotten. Usually, it’s the media, but it’s the players this time. Werenski is second among all defensemen in points and goals and 4th in assists, and he is the MVP of his team. It’s hard enough to put two other defensemen ahead of him this year, but five? That’s a stretch.”
It really is. If we’re talking about this season — and not just reputation — there’s no way Werenski doesn’t belong in that top five.
At some point, the Blue Jackets and Werenski deserve the respect they’ve earned. And if the league’s own players aren’t giving it to him now, what more does he have to do?
