Werenski’s Trade Market Develops
The trade market for Columbus Blue Jackets defenceman Zach Werenski is actively developing, with several teams expressing significant interest. Werenski, who recently won the Norris Trophy, is under contract for two more years at just over $9.5 million annually. Despite his contractual situation, his agent, Judd Moldaver, reportedly would have preferred a trade to have been completed sooner. However, the process is expected to take time, potentially days or weeks, as it is not tied to a trade deadline but rather the upcoming Free Agent Frenzy.
The Blue Jackets’ front office has been reviewing offers and various scenarios for Werenski. While numerous teams are interested, Tampa Bay has emerged as Werenski’s preferred destination. The challenge for Columbus lies in finding a trade package from Tampa Bay that adequately satisfies their requirements, which might necessitate the involvement of a third team. The Blue Jackets are reportedly not interested in a futures deal, instead seeking a trade that immediately benefits their current roster.
Among the teams reportedly in the mix are the Dallas Stars, with speculation that Columbus could pursue Thomas Harley in a potential deal. The Toronto Maple Leafs are also said to be interested, with Matthew Knies potentially being part of any package considered by Columbus. However, it is uncertain if the Maple Leafs possess enough assets to entice the Blue Jackets. The Philadelphia Flyers are also reportedly keen on acquiring Werenski, alongside other unnamed teams.
Coach Bowness on Werenski’s Future
The news regarding Werenski’s potential unwillingness to sign a contract extension with the Columbus Blue Jackets has reportedly surprised coach Rick Bowness. Bowness stated that he would coach whoever is part of the team in September, indicating a focus on the players who are committed to the organization. Werenski’s current contract includes a full no-movement clause, meaning he would need to approve any trade. He will be eligible to sign an extension starting July 1, 2027.
Other Notable Player Movements
In other league news, goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky is set to enter the open market after seven seasons and two Stanley Cups with the Florida Panthers. The Panthers opted for a different direction after a contract stalemate with Bobrovsky, despite a slight softening in his contract demands. The Toronto Maple Leafs are among the teams considering Bobrovsky, although a long-term deal would carry some risk given his age. The Jacob Markstrom trade to the Panthers has also impacted the goalie market.
The situation with Connor Hellebuyck of the Winnipeg Jets remains unresolved. Despite speculation about a potential move to the Buffalo Sabres during the draft weekend, Hellebuyck has not yet been traded. Jets general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff is reportedly being patient, continuing to seek interest for Hellebuyck, though the market is not as aggressive as the Jets might prefer. The Carolina Hurricanes are showing some curiosity, while earlier speculation around the New Jersey Devils has lessened.
Two centres, Dylan Larkin and Vincent Trocheck, are also reportedly seeking a change of scenery, with their situations seemingly linked. If Larkin is traded, Trocheck is likely to follow. Larkin has not yet expanded his limited no-trade list, which puts the Detroit Red Wings in a difficult position as they aim to replace his talent without regressing. If a deal for Larkin does not materialize, the Red Wings expect him to report to training camp. The New York Rangers and Trocheck may finalize a move sooner.
Meanwhile, the Vegas Golden Knights are preparing to make additional moves, benefiting from an increased salary cap and recent cap-clearing transactions. A deal to acquire Parker Wotherspoon for Kaedan Korczak resulted in $2.75 million in cap savings for the Golden Knights next season. This, combined with earlier moves involving Akira Schmid and Pavel Dorofeyev, has provided the team with sufficient cap space to sign defenceman Rasmus Andersson to an extension. Andersson, a pending UFA, is expected to sign with the Golden Knights, who may also have an additional $7 to $8 million for further acquisitions.
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Source: tsn.ca
