Columbus Blue Jackets Have Multiple Trade Offers for Zach Werenski

The Columbus Blue Jackets are going to look much different next season as their star defenceman, Zach Werenski, has informed the team he isn't interested in signing another contract extension with the franchise. GM Don Waddell has opened up his phone lines, and reports have surfaced stating multiple teams have made contact with initial trade offers.

Werenski, 28, has two seasons left on his current deal at $9.8 million AAV, and owns a full no-movement clause, and has full control over his destiny. With several of Team USA's Gold-Medal winning players asking for trades, it's become obvious there was a lot of discussions at the Olympics about the future landscape of the NHL.

Nothing imminent, but the Blue Jackets have started listening to teams calling on Zach Werenski, sources confirm. The CBJ are aware that the Norris Trophy winner is unlikely to extend past his deal. No guarantee he’s dealt this summer but Jackets’ best deal could be now versus…

— Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) June 26, 2026

Dylan Larkin wants out of Detroit, Brady Tkachuk forced his way out of Ottawa, Connor Hellebuyck wants out of Winnipeg, and now Werenski wants out of Columbus. Interesting times around the league, there's no doubt about that.

As far as trade destinations go for Werenski, the Blue Jackets won't be moving him for nothing and setting their franchise back several years. Columbus reportedly is looking for a top-six forward, with term on their contract and entering their prime, along with a top-four defenceman, two top prospects, and a future first-round pick. It's going to take a huge haul to get Werenski out of Columbus. So far, the Florida Panthers, Vegas Golden Knights, Toronto Maple Leafs, Montreal Canadiens, and New York Rangers have been linked to Werenski's blockbuster move.