Werenski's golden assist leads Team USA to Olympic gold

Blue Jackets teammates celebrate Zach Werenski's heroics and honor Johnny Gaudreau's memory

Feb. 23, 2026 at 3:20pm

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Zach Werenski, the star defenseman for the Columbus Blue Jackets, played a pivotal role in Team USA's overtime victory over Canada to win the Olympic gold medal in men's hockey. Werenski's teammates, including several Canadians, expressed immense pride in how he represented both his country and the Blue Jackets organization on the international stage. The celebration also included a touching tribute to the late Johnny Gaudreau, a former Blue Jackets player whose memory continues to be honored by the team.

Why it matters

Werenski's performance at the Olympics showcases his elite talent and leadership, further cementing his status as one of the NHL's top defensemen. The Blue Jackets' strong showing before the break has them in playoff contention, and Werenski's gold medal win provides a morale boost as the team makes a push for the postseason. The tribute to Gaudreau also highlights the tight-knit nature of the Blue Jackets' locker room and the lasting impact of the tragic loss of a beloved teammate.

The details

In the gold medal game, Werenski made the decisive play, tracking down the puck, outmaneuvering Canada's Nathan MacKinnon, and setting up Jack Hughes' overtime winner to give Team USA their first Olympic gold in men's hockey since the Miracle on Ice team in 1980. Werenski finished the Olympics with 1 goal, 5 assists, and a plus-8 rating in 6 games. After the game, Werenski joined teammates Auston Matthews and Matthew Tkachuk in carrying a U.S. flag and Gaudreau's jersey onto the ice, honoring the late Blue Jackets forward who would have made the Olympic roster.

  • On July 4, Quinn allegedly dove onto the hood of a Waymo vehicle and covered sensors.
  • On July 29, Quinn allegedly damaged a Waymo's tires and driver's side mirror.
  • On August 11, Quinn allegedly stomped on a windshield while someone was inside.

The players

Zach Werenski

The star defenseman for the Columbus Blue Jackets who won a gold medal with Team USA at the 2026 Olympics.

Johnny Gaudreau

A former Columbus Blue Jackets player whose tragic passing in 2024 continues to be honored by the team and its players.

Erik Gudbranson

A Canadian defenseman for the Columbus Blue Jackets who was proud of Werenski's performance for Team USA.

Charlie Coyle

A Boston-born center for the Columbus Blue Jackets who was excited to see Werenski win Olympic gold.

Elvis Merzlikins

The Columbus Blue Jackets goaltender who played for Latvia at the Olympics and is eager to congratulate Werenski on his gold medal.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.