Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski has been named to the U.S. Men’s Olympic Orientation Camp, marking a significant step toward potentially representing his country at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, Italy. USA Hockey announced on Tuesday that 44 players, representing 24 different NHL teams, will attend the camp, which will be held August 26-27 in Plymouth, Michigan.
Werenski is among the invitees to the U.S. Men's Olympic Orientation Camp that will help determine the final 25-man roster for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. The camp itself is designed as an administrative and team-building event, with no formal on-ice activities or public component. This allows players and staff to connect and prepare for the upcoming season and potential Olympic participation.
Werenski is considered a strong contender to make the final U.S. Olympic Men's Ice Hockey Team roster. His performance during the 2024-2025 NHL season and his contributions to Team U.S.A. have solidified his position as one of the top defensemen in the league. He was a finalist for the Norris Trophy, awarded to the NHL's best defenseman, after recording 82 points (23 goals, 59 assists) in 81 games last season for the Blue Jackets. He finished second in the voting behind Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche.
Werenski also played a key role in Team U.S.A.'s gold medal win at the 2025 IIHF Men's World Championship—the first gold for the U.S. at the event in 92 years. He recorded six points in the tournament and was named to the All-Tournament team, also earning the title of top defenseman by the IIHF Directorate. His success extends to the 4 Nations Face-Off, where he led the tournament in scoring with six assists, though Team U.S.A. lost in overtime to Team Canada.
The U.S. Men's Olympic Orientation Camp roster includes a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars. Five players have previously competed in the Olympics: Patrick Kane, Ryan McDonagh, Brock Faber, Matthew Knies, and Jake Sanderson. Kane and McDonagh bring additional experience, having played in past Olympics when NHL players were allowed to participate.
The U.S. is aiming for its first Olympic gold medal since the "Miracle on Ice" team's victory in 1980. Since then, they have won silver medals in 2002 and 2010. At the upcoming Olympics, the U.S. will compete in Group C against Germany, Latvia, and Denmark, beginning their tournament on February 11 against Latvia.
The final 25-man roster for the U.S. Olympic Men's Ice Hockey Team is expected to be announced in early January. While attending the orientation camp doesn't guarantee a spot on the team, it provides an opportunity for players to showcase their abilities and build camaraderie. Twelve players from the 2025 IIHF Men's World Championship team are also attending the camp. Six players were named to the U.S. roster in June: Auston Matthews, Jack Eichel, Brady Tkachuk, Matthew Tkachuk, Quinn Hughes, and Charlie McAvoy. All 23 players who participated in the 4 Nations Face-Off in February will be at the camp with the exception of Matthew Tkachuk.
With his impressive performance last season and his experience in international competition, Zach Werenski is a strong candidate to represent the Columbus Blue Jackets and the United States at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
