Blue Jackets to be without star defenseman against Panthers

Zach Werenski will miss third straight game due to illness

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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The Columbus Blue Jackets will be without star defenseman Zach Werenski for Thursday night's game against the two-time reigning Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers. Werenski, who leads the team in assists and points, is out due to an illness and will not return until he is 100% healthy, according to head coach Rick Bowness. The Blue Jackets will also be missing defenseman Dante Fabbro, who is out with a lower-body injury.

Why it matters

Werenski is one of the Blue Jackets' best players, so his absence is a significant blow as the team faces the formidable Panthers. The Blue Jackets are already struggling this season and need all hands on deck to have a chance against the defending champions.

The details

Werenski, a 28-year-old Olympic gold medalist, leads the Blue Jackets in assists (45) and points (65), and is second on the team in goals. The team will also be without defenseman Dante Fabbro, who is out with a lower-body injury.

  • Werenski will miss his third straight game on Thursday, March 6, 2026.
  • The Blue Jackets face the Florida Panthers on Thursday, March 6, 2026.

The players

Zach Werenski

A 28-year-old star defenseman for the Columbus Blue Jackets who leads the team in assists and points.

Rick Bowness

The head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Dante Fabbro

A defenseman for the Columbus Blue Jackets who is out with a lower-body injury.

Kirill Marchenko

A forward for the Columbus Blue Jackets who leads the team in goals.

Jeff Svoboda

A reporter covering the Columbus Blue Jackets.

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What they’re saying

“Werenski won't return to the ice 'til he's 100 percent.'”

— Rick Bowness, Head Coach, Columbus Blue Jackets (team reporter)

What’s next

The Blue Jackets will need to find a way to fill the void left by Werenski's absence as they take on the formidable Panthers on Thursday. The team will hope Werenski can return to full health soon to bolster their lineup.

The takeaway

Werenski's illness is a significant setback for the struggling Blue Jackets as they face the defending Stanley Cup champions. The team's ability to compete without their star defenseman will be put to the test, highlighting the importance of depth and resilience in the NHL.