As NHL trade speculation heats up ahead of the new season, the Toronto Maple Leafs are one of the teams that have been consistently linked to Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski. Sources say the league’s current Norris Trophy holder is attracting a lot of interest around the league with questions about his long-term future in Columbus.Werenski’s elite production from the blue line and his close relationship with Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews only fueled speculation about a potential move. But, to get one of the best blueliners in the league, Toronto might have to give up some premium pieces.
The Toronto Maple Leafs are pursuing an NHL trade of Columbus Blue Jackets star Zach Werenski
The Toronto Maple Leafs are looking at the possibility of trading for Zach Werenski, but league analysts believe the asking price could be one of the biggest of the offseason.Toronto is looking for a true No. 1 defense many times that can affect every situation on the ice. That’s Werenski, coming off a Norris Trophy-winning season in which he produced 81 points and 22 goals.His ability to contribute offensively while also handling difficult defensive roles has placed him among the most valuable blue liners in the league.
| Category: | Details: |
| Players: | Zach Werenski |
| Current Team: | Columbus Blue jackets |
| Reported Teams: | Toronto Maple Leafs, Dallas Stars, Vegas Golden Knights, Philadelphia Flyers, Carolina Hurricanes |
| Contract Status: | Signed through the 2027-28 season with unrestricted free agency eligibility in 2028; The contract protection clauses will apply during the 2026-27 campaign. |
| Salary Cap Hit (New Team) | Approximately $9.58 million AAV against the salary cap. |
| Trade Possibilities: | Moderate to High; driven by league-wide speculation surrounding his long-term future and the premium value attached to a Norris Trophy-winning defenseman. |
| Main Reasons for Interest: | Elite two-way defenseman capable of handling top defensive tasks while producing offense at an elite level. |
| Maple Leaf Connection: | Strong friendship with Auston Matthews during their time representing the United States men’s national ice hockey team in international competition. |
| Latest Insider Update: | TSN’s OverDrive analysts described Werenski’s price as a “king’s ransom,” with Toronto expected to face stiff competition if Columbus entertains offers. |
| Potential Returns: | Columbus will likely seek NHL-ready roster players, top prospects, and premium draft assets rather than a package centered solely on future picks. |
| Biggest Hurdle for Toronto: | Matching Columbus’ asking price for no reason weakens the Maple Leafs’ current roster core. |
Why NHL analysts expect a big trade package
On recent episodes of TSN’s OverDrive, analysts Bryan Hayes and Jeff O’Neill said Werenski’s value is comparable to some of the NHL’s biggest trade targets.Hayes said the reigning Norris Trophy winner would cost a “king’s ransom,” and O’Neill wonders if Toronto has enough assets to really make that trade now.
How Austin Matthews can influence the situation
O’Neill also noted the close relationship between Auston Matthews and Werenski during their time with Team USA as something to watch.Both players represent the United States internationally and stay close on the ice. The recruitment of players is more widespread in the NBA, but some analysts think that Matthews may try to convince Werenski that Toronto provides a real chance to compete for a Stanley Cup.Right now, it looks like the Columbus Blue Jackets are focused on getting the most for Werenski’s trade value if they decide to move their franchise defenseman.