As NHL trade speculation heats up ahead of the new season, the Toronto Maple Leafs are among the teams most frequently 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 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 in order to get one of the best blueliners in the league, Toronto would probably have to give up some top pieces.
The Toronto Maple Leafs are seeking an NHL trade for Columbus Blue Jackets star Zach Werenski
The Toronto Maple Leafs are considering a trade for Zach Werenski, but league analysts believe the asking price could be one of the highest of the offseason.For several seasons, Toronto has been searching for a true No. 1 defenseman who can make an impact in every situation on the ice. That’s Werenski, coming off a Norris Trophy-winning season in which he scored 81 points and scored 22 goals.His ability to contribute offensively while also handling tough defensive assignments ranks him among the league’s most valuable blueliners.
| Category | details |
| Players | Zach Werenski |
| Current team | Columbus Blue Jackets |
| Teams that are talked about | Toronto Maple Leafs, Dallas Stars, Vegas Golden Knights, Philadelphia Flyers, Carolina Hurricanes |
| Contract status | Signed through 2027-28 season with unrestricted free agency in 2028; the protective clauses of the contract apply during the 2026-27 campaign. |
| Salary cap reached (new team) | Approximately $9.58 million AAV against the salary cap. |
| Trade probability | Moderate to high; fueled by league-wide speculation surrounding his long-term future and the premium value placed on the Norris Trophy-winning defenseman. |
| Key reason for interest | An elite two-way defensive player capable of handling high-end defensive assignments while being at an elite level offensively. |
| Maple Leafs Connection | Strong friendship with Auston Matthews during their time representing the United States Men’s National Hockey Team in international competition. |
| The latest insider update | Analysts on TSN’s OverDrive described Werenski’s price as a “king’s ransom,” and Toronto is expected to face stiff competition if Columbus accepts the offers. |
| Potential returns | Columbus would likely be looking for NHL-ready players, top prospects and top draft assets, rather than a package focused solely on future picks. |
| The biggest obstacle for Toronto | Matching Columbus’ asking price without significantly weakening the current core of the Maple Leafs roster. |
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 biggest trade targets in the NHL.Hayes said the reigning Norris Trophy winner would cost a “king’s ransom,” and O’Neill questioned whether Toronto has enough assets to really make that trade now.
How Auston Matthews could affect 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 have represented the United States internationally and remain close to the ice. Recruiting is prevalent in the NBA, but some analysts think Matthews could try to convince Werenski that Toronto presents a real opportunity to compete for the Stanley Cup.For now, the Columbus Blue Jackets seem focused on getting the most for Werenski’s trade value if they decide to move their franchise defenseman.
