COLUMBUS — The Columbus Blue Jackets returned to Nationwide Arena to a sellout crowd Saturday night for their first home game in three weeks, following the Olympic break and a gold-medal run for Team USA that included an assist from defenseman Zach Werenski.
What You Need To Know
The Blue Jackets returned to Nationwide Arena for their first home game in three weeks following the Olympic break
Defenseman Zach Werenski helped set up the golden goal for Team USA during its gold-medal run
Fans say the Olympic moment has renewed their attention and excitement as Columbus remains in the playoff mix
Fans said the Olympic performance has shifted the energy around the team.
“I think it’s going to be extremely electric. I think it’s going to be hype in there today for sure,” said Chris Bachus, a Blue Jackets fan attending the game.
Werenski, who helped set up the golden goal that secured the United States men’s national ice hockey team’s victory, said the reception from fans stood out.
“It makes you emotional in a sense of how many people support you and care. A lot of people I don’t really know personally. But for them to come out and take the time to decorate and write notes on stuff, it means a lot for sure,” Werenski said.
He said the Olympic experience was about more than a single play.
“For us, our goal was, inspire the next generation of us hockey players. And I think we did just that, not just with the win. I think with how close our team was, how much we loved representing our country,” Werenski said.
Columbus entered the break still in the playoff picture. Some fans said the Olympic moment has renewed their focus on the rest of the season.
“I’m more excited. I’m paying a lot more attention. We only missed the playoffs last year by two points. So we can get back in,” said Danael Spires, a Blue Jackets fan.
After weeks without home games, the arena was filled again as the team resumed play, with fans hoping the Olympic momentum carries into a postseason push.