Waddell’s Cryptic Comments on Werenski Raise Red Flags in Columbus

GM Don Waddell chose his words carefully Thursday — and that alone should worry Columbus Blue Jackets fans. Without sharing the details of any previous conversations or hinting that there might be a trade imminent involving the Norris Trophy-winning defenseman, it clearly sounds like that’s a realistic possibility.

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When asked about the future of defenseman Zach Werenski, Waddell offered little reassurance, instead acknowledging “matters” that he believes should stay internal while confirming no definitive plan is in place. Waddell said he intends to meet with Werenski and his agent, Judd Moldaver, in the near future — shortly after this weekend’s NHL Draft — to get a clearer picture of where things stand.

“My plan is still to meet with Zach here in the near future and see where he’s at,” Waddell said. “Just want to get a good sense of where he’s at, and we’ll see how that goes, and take it from there.” When asked about whether it was about accepting a trade or signing an extension, Waddell suggested it was more about getting a feeling on whether Werenski wanted to play for the team long-term.

The fact that Waddell didn’t shy away from the speculation that Werenski might be the next big name to request a trade hints at internal issues and a lack of success — or maybe just wanting a fresh start with a Cup contender — signals that this situation is more complicated than a routine contract discussion.

Werenski has two years remaining on his current deal and cannot sign an extension until next summer, meaning Columbus has time — but not unlimited runway. “My plan is still to meet with Zach here in the near future and see where he’s at. … Just want to get a good sense of where he’s at, and we’ll see how that goes, and take it from there.”

Is a Werenski Trade Coming?

What if Werenski confirms the organization’s worst fears? What if he tells Waddell he’s unlikely to re-sign when the time rolls around to do so? The Blue Jackets will have to explore their options.

Columbus isn’t about to make drastic moves just to appease their star defenseman. There are no offer sheet attempts coming out of that organization. They’ll likely have issues signing big names on July 1, and probably won’t overbid to do so. That means Werenski either has to be happy with the way things are or be upfront and say things have probably run their course.

The Werenski situation draws uncomfortable comparisons to the Dylan Larkin saga in Detroit: a talented, competitive player on a rebuilding team quietly reaching a breaking point. Players of Werenski’s caliber want to win, and organizations that can’t offer it are forced to make changes.

The Draft will come and go without knowing what will become of the conversation between the team and their superstar. But when Waddell and Werenski finally sit down, that meeting could quietly determine the entire direction of Columbus’s rebuild.

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