New Zach Werenski Trade Rumors Reveal Blue Jackets Star's Preferred Landing Spot

Columbus Blue Jackets star Zach Werenski prefers to be traded to the Tampa Bay Lightning, according to TSN's Pierre LeBrun.

"The Blue Jackets front office over the last few days have poured over the offers, have looked at the different scenarios," LeBrun reported Tuesday. "Tampa Bay is the team of choice for Zach Werenski. Now, whether or not there's a trade with Tampa Bay that can satisfy Columbus is another factor altogether. Does that require a third team getting involved?"

On Friday, LeBrun reported that the Blue Jackets started fielding calls from opposing teams interested in trading for Werenski.

He has two seasons left on a six-year, $57.5 million contract that he signed with Columbus in 2021.

Werenski will carry cap hits of $9.6 million for the 2026-27 season as well as the 2027-28 season (via Spotrac). He cannot sign another deal with the Blue Jackets until July 1, 2027.

Several teams have shown interest in Werenski on the trade market, as LeBrun reported that the Dallas Stars, Carolina Hurricanes and Philadelphia Flyers were among the organizations targeting the 28-year-old.

He appears to be focused on joining the Lightning, though.

Werenski is coming off a stellar 2025-26 campaign, as he won the Norris Trophy as the NHL's top defenseman. He amassed 22 goals and 59 assists in 75 games.

Still, the Blue Jackets missed the playoffs after going 3-9-1 over their final 13 games to finish at 40-30-12.

Meanwhile, Tampa Bay ended the year with a 50-26-6 record to clinch a ninth consecutive postseason appearance. The Lightning suffered their fourth straight first-round elimination, though.

As they look to go on a deeper playoff run next season, Werenski could be a major addition to their defense.