The Columbus Blue Jackets have suddenly become one of the biggest storylines of the NHL offseason, and frustration is beginning to boil over around the organization.
After reports surfaced that general manager Don Waddell has started listening to trade offers for reigning Norris Trophy winner Zach Werenski, one Blue Jackets insider publicly criticized the organization’s handling of the situation.
Blue Jackets Under Fire as Zach Werenski Trade Rumors Intensify
The speculation exploded after it was reported that Werenski is not expected to sign a new contract when his current six-year deal expires following the 2027-28 season.
Werenski and the Blue Jackets were expected to meet after the 2026 NHL Draft to discuss his future, but the situation has moved much faster. Waddell has already started taking calls from interested teams. However, the Columbus GM’s decision to kick the Werenski trade can down the road past the draft has not gone down well.
Blue Jackets insider Aaron Portzline questioned the team’s timing, saying, “Never made sense to wait until after the draft, especially tonight’s first round, to confront the situation with Werenski.”
The NHL Draft is when trade activity is at its peak, with teams holding the most cap space, draft picks, and flexibility. By waiting until after the draft, the Blue Jackets may have missed their best chance to maximize a trade return.
Werenski isn’t the only player generating concern.
Shortly after the defenseman’s future came into question, ESPN’s Kevin Weekes reported that Kirill Marchenko’s camp has also indicated the winger is unlikely to sign a long-term extension in Columbus.
Portzline later described the mood around the organization in blunt terms. “All due respect to Oscar Hemming, this was the least celebratory draft in CBJ history. That’s how it feels. A cloud hangs over Nationwide Arena. First, Werenski. Now, Marchenko. GM Waddell is trying to build his roster for 26-27, but two pillars are crumbling.”
Marchenko is entering the final season of his contract, which carries a $3.85 million cap hit, before becoming a restricted free agent with arbitration rights in 2027. While Columbus still controls his rights beyond next season, the report has only added to concerns about the franchise’s long-term outlook.
Neither Werenski nor Marchenko has publicly requested a trade, but both situations raise questions about the direction of the organization.
Werenski has spent years leading a rebuilding Blue Jackets team through disappointing campaigns. His reported decision not to commit beyond 2028 is widely viewed as a desire to compete for a Stanley Cup while still in his prime.
Marchenko, meanwhile, is reportedly seeking a long-term contract at seven years worth a reported $11 million average annual value. With uncertainty surrounding Werenski’s future and another potential rebuild on the horizon, his camp appears reluctant to commit to Columbus for the long haul.
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Taken together, the two contract situations represent a growing challenge for Waddell. Losing one franchise cornerstone would be difficult enough. Facing uncertainty around two of the team’s biggest building blocks has left many wondering whether the Blue Jackets are headed for yet another organizational reset.
