According to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski vetoed a trade that would have sent him to the Dallas Stars. The deal was reportedly in place between the two teams, but Werenski exercised his no-move clause to block the move.
Friedman reported the news on July 1, 2026, during a segment on Sportsnet. He did not provide details on the proposed return for Columbus or the specific timeline of the negotiations.
Werenski, 28, signed a six-year, $57.5 million contract extension with Columbus in 2021 that includes a full no-move clause through the 2027-28 season. He has spent his entire NHL career with the Blue Jackets since being drafted eighth overall in 2015.
The Blue Jackets are in a rebuilding phase, and Werenski's decision to stay could impact their long-term plans. Dallas, a Stanley Cup contender, was reportedly seeking defensive help.
