Let's get this story rolling. The title says it all. Even though there are many quality rookies in the NHL making debuts, Zach Werenski should get it after his performances so far this season.
He is currently sixth in the league in points with 13 points in 14 games. In the entire league. He has the most points with the least amount of games played in the top ten. That's startling for a 19 year old defenseman.
His 13 points also make him third among all rookies for points. The only players in front of him currently are Patrik Laine and Mitch Marner. Behind him are William Nylander and Auston Matthews. The only defensemen in the top five. That's amazing.
His five goals has him fifth amongst all rookies. In goals. For a rookie defenseman. In front of him is Matthews; Marner; Jimmy Vessey; and Laine.
His 8 assists are third amongst all rookies. In assists. In front of him is Marner and Brady Skjei.
According to the Elias Sports Bureau, Werenski is the first player to score a post in his first eight home games of his career since Jonathan Toews' rookie season; and the first Jacket to eclipse that plateau (Jake Voracek had six when in Columbus).
Werenski is dominating the league in the toughest position with one of the toughest coaches. The extra year has helped his development, and he has proven to be a number one defenseman in this league. The other rookies listed will be great players throughout their entire careers, but Werenski is proving now and in his position to be the best.
What are your thoughts on Zach Werenski?
More to come...
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