According to multiple sources, the Dallas Stars and Columbus Blue Jackets had a verbal agreement on a Zach Werenski trade, which was to be completed on Wednesday morning, only to have it vetoed by the Norris Trophy winner. (Werenski has a full no-move clause.)
Apparently, the calendar needed to flip to July 1 before it could happen, due to contractual and/or cap reasons. Thomas Harley was to be the centrepiece of the return, but other players/picks may have been involved, too.
Werenski’s decision appears to indicate two things: that his preference — for now — is the Eastern Conference, and that the relationship between player and the Blue Jackets is falling apart in what could be its final days.
Sportsnet reported last week that Columbus planned to meet with Werenski post-draft, but, apparently, the player felt he had addressed his future back in April, saying that he’d play out his current contract (two years remaining), but would not commit to an extension.
The Stars appear to be caught in the middle, unaware that their trade — which, sources say, was agreed to late Monday — would be vetoed. They were informed Tuesday night.
We’ll see how things evolve, but it’s taken a nasty turn.
