The trade rumors surrounding Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski were never-ending at one point of the 2026 NHL offseason.
While the temperature has cooled significantly since he used his no-movement clause to veto a blockbuster trade to Dallas and reaffirm his commitment to Columbus, the front office cannot afford to breathe a sigh of relief just yet.
Columbus Blue Jackets Warned Over Werenski’s Future
Werenski is coming off a career-defining season after winning the 2026 Norris Trophy as the NHL’s top defenseman. At 29, he is in the prime of his career and has two years left on his contract.
That has led to comparisons between Columbus and the situation evolving around Connor McDavid in Edmonton.
A “McDavid situation” occurs when a team has an elite superstar performing at the highest level but fails to build a strong enough roster around him. After an early playoff exit, the Oilers are facing pressure to maximize McDavid’s prime, especially with his two-year, $25 million extension set to kick in this season.
The Blue Jackets now face a similar challenge with Werenski.
Columbus cannot afford to simply wait around while its young players slowly develop. A Norris Trophy winner in his prime needs a team capable of competing around him.
When asked whether Columbus is in a similar position with Werenski, former Blue Jackets winger Jody Shelley agreed.
He explained that while the team’s young players still need time to develop, the urgency must now increase.
“I don’t think you just say we’re building, we’re looking to the young guys, which of course they have to take a step. (Denton) Mateychuk on the back end has to take a step. (Cole) Sillinger, (Kent) Johnson, the urgency needs to be stamped in them now,” Shelley said.
Shelley also pointed to new head coach Rick Bowness, who he believes can help push the young core forward. “He’s the guy that’s hands-on and vocal. He’s on these guys now in the offseason,” he added.
Although Werenski reaffirmed his commitment to Columbus and vetoed a trade to Dallas, the Blue Jackets cannot afford to become complacent.
A superstar’s patience is not unlimited.
Columbus has now missed the playoffs for six seasons. If that drought continues, Werenski’s desire to compete could eventually outweigh his loyalty to the organization.
ALSO READ: ‘Tough To Say He Will Take It’: Fresh Connor McDavid Report Gives Oilers a New Lease on Life
The Oilers are in win-now mode because they cannot afford to waste McDavid’s prime. Columbus could eventually face the same pressure with Werenski.
For now, the solution is clear. The Blue Jackets need their young players to take major steps forward, and they need to start winning soon.
If that does not happen, the questions surrounding Werenski’s future will only grow louder, and Columbus could eventually be forced to trade its franchise defenseman before the situation reaches a breaking point.
