Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell Reiterates There Is No Animosity with Star Defenseman Zach Werenski
Don Waddell said there was no miscommunication with Zach Werenski and that future contract talks will hinge on how the season unfolds.
- Following reports of a potential exit, star defenseman Zach Werenski will remain with the Columbus Blue Jackets for the upcoming season after rejecting a trade to the Dallas Stars.
- General Manager Don Waddell met with Werenski and agent Judd Moldaver on Wednesday to address trade speculation, with both sides issuing statements focusing on the upcoming season.
- Werenski, the 2015 eighth overall pick, won his first Norris Trophy this past season with 59 assists and has two years remaining on his contract, which includes a full no-trade clause.
- Waddell said Thursday at the rookie development camp that Werenski's veto of the Dallas trade reflected a desire to stay in Columbus, with the team potentially naming him next captain.
- With Werenski remaining, the organization aims to reach the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time since 2020, while Waddell indicated future contract negotiations will depend on how the season unfolds.
18 Articles
18 Articles
Associated Press News
Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell reiterates there is no animosity with star defenseman Zach Werenski
Zach Werenski decided in less than an hour to reject a trade from the Columbus Blue Jackets to the Dallas Stars.
NHL Trade Rumors: Why Did Zach Werenski Reject A Trade To The Dallas Stars as Connor Hellebuyck Talk Continues?
Zach Werenski rejected a trade to the Dallas Stars and remains with the Columbus Blue Jackets, while Connor Hellebuyck continues to generate NHL trade interest.
Werenski didn't want to go to Dallas — or anywhere. Here's what he told the Blue Jackets
COLUMBUS, Ohio — The future of Zach Werenski in Columbus nearly ended when Don Waddell and the Blue Jackets had an offer from the Dallas Stars to trade the reigning Norris Trophy winner.
Where do Blue Jackets fit into playoff picture with Werenski staying? - Daily Faceoff
It’s been turmoil-filled offseason for the Columbus Blue Jackets, but it appears that cooler heads have prevailed between the team’s front office and reigning Norris Trophy-winning defenseman Zach Werenski. After much speculation that Werenski had requested a trade and wanted out, and an accepted trade to the Dallas Stars nixed by the Stars defenseman, both player and team put out statements on Wednesday confirming that Werenski wants to return …
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 47% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
