COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski is joining the United States in the IIHF World Championship.
“I feel like in hockey, people really love playing for their country,” Werenski said. “Putting that jersey on is great.”
Werenski originally said he wouldn’t play for Team USA after the Blue Jackets’ season wrapped up, but as time went on, he couldn’t resist the chance to represent his country.
“You’re just doing it for pride because you love your country,” he said. “And I think fans can get behind that.”
Werenski missed Team USA’s game on Monday against Switzerland because his gear hadn’t arrived on time. He’s expected to make his debut on Wednesday against Norway.