Zach Werenski won the Norris Trophy this season as the NHL's top defenseman. Jason Mowry / Getty ImagesJune 30, 2026 Updated 11:52 pm EDTZach Werenski declined a trade that would have sent the reigning Norris Trophy winner to the Dallas Stars from the Columbus Blue Jackets on Tuesday night, according to league sources briefed on those discussions, speaking under the condition of anonymity to address negotiations that aren’t public.Werenski’s contract includes a no-movement clause.While the 28-year-old defenseman hasn’t formally requested a trade from the Blue Jackets, he’s had multiple discussions with team personnel dating to April about his uncertain future beyond the expiration of his contract in July 2028, according to the sources.
If he moves, Werenski’s preference is to remain in the East, with the Tampa Bay Lightning and Toronto Maple Leafs both considered agreeable landing spots.The Blue Jackets have made it known that they need a trade return involving Werenski to be built around a player or players that can help immediately. The proposed package from the Stars included defenseman Thomas Harley, who is just starting an eight-year contract extension carrying a cap hit of $10.587 million.Werenski is coming off a season in which he finished with 22 goals and 81 points in 75 games. He also won Olympic gold with Team USA at the Milan Cortina Games in February.With two seasons left on his deal in Columbus, it was originally his intention to return to the Blue Jackets in the fall if a suitable trade couldn’t be found. However, now that the situation has spilled out publicly, emotions are running high and it’s not clear where things are heading next.Jul 1, 2026Connections: Sports EditionSpot the pattern. Connect the termsFind the hidden link between sports terms
