Columbus Blue Jackets Consider Trading Zach Werenski

The Columbus Blue Jackets have no intention of trading star defenseman Zach Werenski, who has two years left on his contract.

President and General Manager Don Waddell stated that keeping Werenski long-term is the team's top priority.

What's the trade value of Zach Werenski?

If a trade were requested, Waddell said the asking price would be a "boatload", considering Werenski's value as a reigning Norris Trophy winner.

The Blue Jackets currently stand 11th in the Eastern Conference with a 40-30 record, on a L2 streak.

Trading for Zach Werenski would require a high price

Past trades involving defensemen Seth Jones and Erik Karlsson suggest a potential return for Werenski would include high draft picks, a top prospect, and NHL talent.

Waddell's "boatload" asking price is justified, given Werenski's impressive performance, leading the Jackets in points the past two seasons.

Columbus Blue Jackets could use Seth Jones trade as a starting point

The 2021 trade of Seth Jones to the Chicago Blackhawks could serve as a reference point for a potential Werenski trade, with the Blue Jackets receiving a haul of draft picks and young NHL players.

The Blue Jackets' priority remains keeping Werenski, but they are prepared for any scenario, with Waddell emphasizing the importance of retaining their star defenseman.

The team's focus is on the upcoming 2026 NHL Draft and the start of free agency on July 1, with Werenski's future a key consideration in their planning.