Insider Wonders: Is Norris Winner Next NHL Star to Ask For a Trade?

According to NHL insider Pierre LeBrun, the possibility of a trade request this summer involving Norris Trophy winner Zach Werenski should not be ruled out. He’s not suggesting a request is coming, nor that there has been any hint that one will. Still, LeBrun wonders if the dominoes are lining up just right.

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In a recent article for The Athletic, LeBrun wrote:

“There’s been much speculation about Zach Werenski in the wake of Larkin’s trade request, perhaps because they’re close friends and fellow Team USA gold medalists. But I can tell you as of Wednesday afternoon, I’m told there has not been any communication to the Columbus Blue Jackets indicating that kind of thing on Werenski, who has two more years on his deal.”

He adds:

“Now, having said that, I’m not ready to say that it couldn’t happen before the end of the summer, either, just based on the fact that at some point the team and player will want to talk about the future and whether or not he sees himself in Columbus long term. And I don’t know what the answer to that question would be.”

This would be a massive development and a huge blow for the Blue Jackets, who are also looking at the possible loss of Mason Marchment and their captain Boone Jenner. Both are pending UFAs, and Columbus might not be comfortable spending the kind of money on Marchment the market would command. Jenner wants term and the Blue Jackets aren’t likely to offer it.

Will Werenski Be Looking to Leave Columbus?

What does that mean for Werenski? Maybe nothing, as he’s been a loyal Blue Jacket even when the teams have been lousy. However, as his contract winds down, an opportunity to go to a contender has to be appealing.

If he does hit the market, expect almost every team to line up and take a swing. He holds a no-move clause this season, but the deal becomes a modified trade contract with a 10-team trade list. He was just awarded the honors of best defenseman in the NHL, yet he’s still one of the most underrated talents in the league. And, at a $9.5 million cap hit, he’s a steal.

It’s important to remember, there’s no indication that trade talk is even happening. One reader wrote on LeBrun’s column: “I love reading hypotheticals as much as the next person, but the Werenski storyline in a ‘NHL Rumblings’ piece feels forced and an attempt at a headline grab. Could he request a trade? Absolutely. But as stated, there’s no meat to the story right now.”

Next: 3 Immediate Concerns Oilers Need to Address With Darnell Nurse Trade