In the span of less than a week, Zach Werenski has gone from greatest Blue Jacket of all time, to perhaps their biggest villain. After telling management that he would not extend beyond his current contract, and that he is open to a trade-he vetoed a trade to the only team that would net the club any meaningful return.
The last 5 days have been some of the hardest in franchise history. Heading into NHL Draft weekend, hopes were high for this team; especially after they went out and acquired Valeri Nichushkin. It still felt like business as planned.
Then, it all collapsed. The rumors turned out to be true: Zach Werenski wanted out of Columbus. The reigning Norris Trophy winner wanted a fresh start, despite saying all of the right things in front of the cameras.
Behind the scenes, Don Waddell was working to try to find a solution, but you could tell that he was upset and blindsided by the request. It would be difficult for him not to be; as Werenski certainly factored into what he's trying to build here. In fact, he was the centerpiece of it.
All along, the Dallas Stars have been the most obvious trade partner. From the moment this bombshell was dropped on us, the entire hockey world saw the obvious: a Zach Werenski-for-Thomas Harley deal just made too much sense for both teams.
Apparently, that's how both Don Waddell and Stars GM Jim Nill felt, as well. They struck a deal on Monday night, according to Sportsnet Canada's Elliotte Friedman. That deal was to be announced this morning, due to contractual requirements.
However last night, Werenski nixed the deal. He only wants to play for two teams, and neither of them are the Blue Jackets-who he signed a contract with-or the Stars, who could give them the very best return.
He wants out, but he doesn't want to go to one of the best teams in the league?
The 5th Line is rightfully very emotional, and the rumor that he may not accept any trade at this point, is just icing on the cake. Zach has now gone from potentially rewriting the team's record book, to being chased out of town with pitchforks.
If he doesn't accept a trade out of Columbus this summer, that may be the worst decision he ever makes. I can't see it ending well, if he puts on the Union Blue ever again.
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