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Blue Jackets' Zach Werenski: Goldie Howe hat trick against Bolts

The game got increasingly physical as the Bolts got more frustrated, and just a few minutes after Werenski scored a first-period tally he got into a scrap with Brayden Point -- the first fight of the young defenseman's NHL career. Werenski has notched three points (one goal, two helpers), all with the man advantage, to help the Jackets jump out to a 2-0 lead, with the series now shifting back to Columbus on Sunday.

Blue Jackets' Zach Werenski: Returns after passing protocol

Werenski played just shy of 18 minutes despite the head hit, able to return following a brief absence. It's likely the top-pairing blueliner will undergo further testing Monday, but as of now, both team and player seem to have dodged a bullet. Werenski picked up his 33rd assist in Sunday's win.

Blue Jackets' Zach Werenski: Will be active Thursday

Werenski hasn't missed a game all season, likely making him a popular choice among risk-averse fantasy players. Columbus' eighth overall pick has posted 11 goals, 32 assists and 15 power-play points through 76 games.

Blue Jackets' Zach Werenski: Fans seeking clarity on injury

Werenski left the game midway through the third period, but not before tallying a power-play assist to put him five points away from a new career high. The supremely talented offensive defenseman is bound to be reexamined ahead of Thursday's game against the Canadiens.

Blue Jackets' Zach Werenski: Registers pair of points

Werenski is up to 42 points in 73 games this season, 14 of which have come with the man advantage. The top-pairing defenseman also has 151 shots, but he carries a minus-13 rating as well. He has collected two goals and six helpers in 10 games in March.