ZachWerenski

Zach Werenski's draft position is the first clear marker of his standing: the Columbus Blue Jackets chose him eighth overall in 2015, and the defenseman has since built a long NHL regular-season career with that same club. Through the latest recorded campaign he had produced 465 points from 642 appearances, a return that shows how much offence the Blue Jackets have come to expect from his position. His left-shot game and United States selection add further context.

Today he lines up on defence for the Columbus Blue Jackets in the NHL, and his international appearances have come for the United States. A left-shooting defenseman who has stayed with one organization, his career points total reflects an offensive dimension. That continuity makes him a reference point for the Blue Jackets blue line, and the national team connection adds a second layer to his career.