Eight possible destinations if the Blue Jackets decide to trade Zach Werenski
The New York Times • • sports
Key Points:
- Columbus Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell has begun listening to trade offers for star defenseman Zach Werenski, who has indicated he will not re-sign with Columbus after his contract ends in 2027-28.
- Waddell insists any trade return for Werenski must include NHL-caliber players, not just draft picks or prospects, aiming to maintain a competitive roster.
- Potential trade destinations for Werenski include teams like the Philadelphia Flyers, Dallas Stars, Carolina Hurricanes, San Jose Sharks, Toronto Maple Leafs, Boston Bruins, Anaheim Ducks, and Detroit Red Wings, each with varying assets and needs.
- The Flyers and Stars present challenges in matching Columbus' demands, while the Hurricanes and Sharks are seen as more feasible fits given their roster situations and cap space.
- Other teams like the Bruins and Ducks could be aggressive suitors but may lack the necessary trade assets, and the Red Wings' interest is complicated by internal dynamics such as Dylan Larkin's trade request.
