Overview
- GM Don Waddell told reporters Thursday he plans to meet with Zach Werenski “in the near future” to discuss where the player stands.
- Waddell said there is no definitive plan yet and that the team has held conversations with Werenski’s agent, Judd Moldaver, without reaching decisions.
- The Blue Jackets confirmed Werenski has two years remaining on his contract and that no formal trade request has been publicly disclosed.
- Waddell said the upcoming NHL Draft will not drive the Werenski decision and framed the discussion as an internal personnel matter tied to the club’s push to improve.
- Werenski’s Norris Trophy and 81-point 2025–26 season have raised his trade value and public speculation, creating urgency for Columbus and concern among fans about the franchise’s short-term direction.