The Zach Werenski trade saga may not be over just yet.
Earlier this summer, the Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman reportedly used his no-movement clause to block a potential blockbuster trade to the Dallas Stars. Werenski and general manager Don Waddell later made it clear that they had moved past the situation, with the defenseman reaffirming his commitment to Columbus.
However, NHL insider Jeff Marek believes Dallas could still be in the picture.
Insider Revives Werenski Trade Rumors With Dallas
Before free agency began, Columbus and Dallas reportedly had the framework of a major trade in place. Thomas Harley was believed to be a key part of Dallas’ offer, along with draft picks. However, Werenski ultimately chose not to waive his trade protection.
Waddell said the decision came quickly, with Werenski reportedly taking less than an hour to decide that he wanted to remain with the Blue Jackets.
Werenski later played down the situation, saying it had been “blown out of proportion” and that he and Waddell were on the same page.
Still, the possibility of a future trade hasn’t completely disappeared. Speaking on The Sheet, analyst Keith Kavanaugh asked, “You mentioned… you still don’t think the Stars’ deal is off the table for Zach Werenski.”
Marek’s response was simple: “Nope, I don’t.”
That doesn’t mean a trade is imminent. Instead, Marek’s comments suggest the circumstances could change again if Werenski’s long-term future in Columbus remains uncertain.
Werenski’s Contract Could Change Everything
The biggest factor is Werenski’s contract situation.
The 29-year-old defenseman is signed through the 2027-28 season with a $9.58 million annual cap hit. While he has committed to playing in Columbus for now, questions remain about whether he will sign another long-term deal with the Blue Jackets.
If the two sides cannot reach an extension, Columbus could eventually face a difficult decision. Rather than risk losing a Norris Trophy-caliber defenseman for nothing, Waddell could once again explore the trade market.
Dallas already has a strong reason to pursue Werenski, with Thomas Harley reportedly at the center of the original trade framework. Harley would give Columbus an established young defenseman who fits its core, while Werenski would give Dallas an elite partner for Miro Heiskanen and strengthen its blue line.
There is another important wrinkle in the situation.
On July 1, 2027, Werenski’s full no-movement clause is scheduled to change to a 10-team no-trade Clause. That would give Columbus considerably more flexibility.
If Dallas is not included on Werenski’s list, the Stars could once again become a legitimate trade destination.
That doesn’t guarantee a deal, but it would remove one of the biggest obstacles to the original trade.
For now, the situation is quiet. But if Werenski’s future in Columbus becomes uncertain again, don’t be surprised if Dallas re-enters the conversation.
