Zach Werenski might actually get moved this summer. And based on what we’re hearing, there’s no shortage of teams willing to make a call.
NHL insider Pierre LeBrun posted on X that the Tampa Bay Lightning should be considered a legit suitor for the Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman. That’s notable because The Athletic recently ran a piece listing eight teams that fit Werenski and left Tampa Bay off it. LeBrun wanted to make sure people knew they were in the mix.
Werenski won the Norris Trophy last season as the league’s top defenseman. He put up 81 points for a Blue Jackets team that missed the playoffs. That’s a monster season on a bad team, which is exactly why contenders are lining up.
The List of Interested Teams Keeps Growing
According to reports, the Dallas Stars, Carolina Hurricanes, and Philadelphia Flyers are also in on Werenski. So are the San Jose Sharks, Boston Bruins, Toronto Maple Leafs, Anaheim Ducks, and Detroit Red Wings. That’s a weird mix. Some of those teams are legit contenders. Others are still rebuilding. Werenski could basically end up anywhere.
The Athletic reported that Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell is listening to offers. He wants immediate roster help, not draft picks or prospects. That rules out teams that are purely stockpiling assets. Waddell needs players who can help now.
Werenski Has All the Control Here
Here’s the thing about a potential trade. Werenski has a full no-move clause that runs until July 1, 2027. After that it becomes a 10-team no-trade list for the final year of his contract. So he basically decides where he goes, at least for now. The Athletic reported that Werenski has indicated he doesn’t plan to re-sign with Columbus when his deal expires after the 2027-28 season. That’s why Waddell is even considering this.
Waddell never expected to be shopping a reigning Norris winner. But when your best player tells you he’s not staying long-term, you either get value for him now or risk losing him for nothing later. Columbus missed the playoffs in 2025-26 and the roster isn’t close to contending. If Werenski wants out, there’s not much the front office can do except find the best return.
Werenski’s camp hasn’t commented publicly on trade speculation. Neither has the Blue Jackets organization. But the rumor mill is running hot and it’s not hard to see why. A 27-year-old Norris Trophy winner who can log 25 minutes a night and score 80 points doesn’t hit the market often.
Wherever he lands, that team instantly becomes more dangerous.
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