Zach Werenski should remain with Rick Bowness and the Columbus Blue Jackets through the opening months of the season.
Aaron Portzline expects Werenski to stay well into the schedule, pushing back against the idea that a summer trade is approaching.
The situation could change once the playoff race takes shape. If Columbus falls out early, Werenski's future may become one of the league's largest trade stories.
A competitive season would create a different outcome. Portzline believes Werenski could remain through next summer if the Blue Jackets stay in the race.
That gives Don Waddell time, but it doesn't remove the pressure. Columbus must prove its current roster can support an elite defenseman entering another major career decision.
Werenski's value to Bowness reaches beyond points. He drives the transition game, handles heavy blue-line minutes and gives the power play its primary distributor.
" Aaron Portzline: Re Zach Werenski: I think he will be a Blue Jacket well into the season; the next question mark pops up if the Blue Jackets are out of the playoff race; if they're as competitive as they want to be, I think he goes into next summer - Athletic Hockey Show (7/22) "
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Zach Werenski's future takes major turn after Blue Jackets' timeline revealed
Trading him before the season would signal that management has already lost faith in the roster. Keeping him allows the Blue Jackets to test their progress under real pressure.
But waiting also carries risk. A poor first half could leave Waddell negotiating while rival teams know Columbus has fewer reasons to hold its star.
Werenski would command a serious return if made available. Contenders searching for a top-pair defenseman would have to offer premium young talent, draft capital or immediate NHL help.
The Blue Jackets can avoid that path by staying relevant. A strong opening stretch would give Bowness stability and show Werenski that the organization is moving forward.
This season also becomes a test for the players around him. Columbus needs its young forwards to produce and its defensive depth to prevent every difficult assignment from landing on Werenski.
Portzline's timeline creates a clear checkpoint rather than an immediate move. The trade conversation may remain quiet until the standings force management to act.
For now, Werenski stays at the center of Columbus' push. If the Blue Jackets compete, the noise can wait until summer. If they slide, his name could dominate the market before the deadline.
Should Columbus trade Zach Werenski if it falls out of the playoff race?
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