As NHL trade speculation heats up ahead of the new season, the Toronto Maple Leafs are one of the teams most often linked to Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski. Sources say the league’s current Norris Trophy holder is drawing a lot of interest around the league, raising questions about his long-term future in Columbus.Werenski’s stellar play on the blue line and his close relationship with Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews have only fueled speculation about his possible move. However, in order to acquire one of the league’s best blueliners, Toronto may have to give up some quality players.
Toronto Maple Leafs seeking NHL trade for Columbus Blue Jackets star Zach Werenski
The Toronto Maple Leafs are exploring the possibility of trading Zach Werenski, but league analysts believe the asking price could be one of the largest of the offseason.For several seasons, Toronto has been looking for a true No. 1 defenseman who can impact every situation on the ice. That’s Welenski, who had 81 points and 22 goals in a Norris Trophy-winning season.His ability to contribute offensively while also taking on tough defensive duties has made him one of the league’s most valuable blueliners.
| category | detail |
| player | Zach Werenski |
| Current team | columbus bluejackets |
| Rumored Team | Toronto Maple Leafs, Dallas Stars, Vegas Golden Knights, Philadelphia Flyers, Carolina Hurricanes |
| Contract status | Signed through 2027-28 and becomes an unrestricted free agent in 2028; contract protections apply through 2026-27. |
| Salary Cap Reached (New Team) | Relative to the salary cap, the AAV is approximately $9.58 million. |
| trade possibilities | Medium to High; Boosted by league-wide speculation surrounding his long-term future and the premium price attached to the Norris Trophy-winning backer. |
| Main reasons for interest | Elite two-way defenseman capable of handling top-tier defensive duties while running offense at an elite level. |
| Maple Leaf Connection | A strong friendship was developed with Auston Matthews while competing internationally for the U.S. Men’s National Hockey Team. |
| Latest Insider Updates | Analysts at TSN OverDrive described Werensky’s offer as a “king’s ransom,” and Toronto is expected to face stiff competition if Columbus accepts the offer. |
| potential return | Columbus will likely seek an NHL roster, top prospects and quality draft assets rather than just a package built around future draft picks. |
| Toronto’s Biggest Obstacle | Matching Columbus’ asking price without significantly weakening the core of the Maple Leafs’ current roster. |
Why NHL analysts expect massive trade package
In recent episodes of TSN OverDrive, analysts Bryan Hayes and Jeff O’Neill said Werenski’s value is comparable to some of the biggest trade targets in the NHL.Hayes said the defending Norris Trophy champions would pay a “king’s ransom,” and O’Neal wondered if Toronto now had enough assets to actually make the deal.
How Auston Matthews affects situations
O’Neal also pointed to the close relationship between Auston Matthews and Werenski during their time with Team USA as something to watch.Both players have represented the United States internationally and maintain a close relationship off the ice. Player recruiting is more common in the NBA, but some analysts believe Matthews may try to convince Werenski that Toronto offers a real chance to compete for the Stanley Cup.For now, the Columbus Blue Jackets appear focused on getting the most out of Werenski’s trade value if they decide to move their franchise back.
