Report: Stars' Blockbuster Trade For Zach Werenski May Not Be Dead

NHL insider Jeff Marek says Dallas’ attempt to trade for Zach Werenski isn’t finished, describing it as on pause in comments on Daily Faceoff Insider this past week.

“I don’t think that the Dallas deal is done,” Marek said, adding that the Werenski watch continues and that it feels like the deal is paused.

What Happened In The Summer

TSN’s Darren Dreger and Pierre LeBrun reported June 30 that Columbus had a deal in place to send Werenski to Dallas, and multiple reports said defenseman Thomas Harley was the centerpiece going to Columbus.

Werenski has a full no-movement clause and used it to veto the trade, according to ESPN, after telling Columbus he was unlikely to sign another contract when his deal expires after 2027-28.

Jeff Marek: Re Blue Jackets: Zach Werenski Watch continues to be on; I don't think that the Dallas deal is done, I think right now it's on pause, that's the way it feels David Pagnotta: Yeah, it does - DFO Insider (10/21) ____ NHLRR: This summer the Blue Jackets were on the verge of moving Zach Werenski to Dallas in a package that included Thomas Harley; Werenski vetoed the deal; he has thus far not committed to extending in Columbus

— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) October 26, 2026

Friedman reported that Werenski preferred to be dealt to an Eastern Conference team, which ruled out Dallas once he chose to use his clause.

Werenski put out a statement saying “I want to win and I want to do that in Columbus,” and he said in August it was “tough for about a week” and that his feelings had been misconstrued.

Why It Could Come Back

Werenski is 29, and he won the Norris Trophy last season with 22 goals and 59 assists in 75 games, and carries a $9.58 million cap hit through 2027-28.

So far this season, he has zero goals and six assists across nine games, while averaging an insane 29:00 time on ice per game.

His full no-movement clause turns into a 10-team trade list next offseason, which gives Columbus more flexibility.

Frank Seravalli: Re Blue Jackets: I still believe that the jury is out...based on the sources I talk to, on Zach Werenski and him making a commitment - Jason Gregor Show (9/24)

— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) October 8, 2026

Harley is 25 and signed an eight-year, $84.6 million extension that runs through 2033-34.

Marek’s logic is that if Columbus doesn’t believe it can re-sign Werenski it could move him early with term remaining.