The Toronto Maple Leafs are expected to pursue defenseman Zach Werenski, who is the reigning Norris Trophy winner, given to the best NHL defenseman for his overall impact. And if the Columbus Blue Jackets make him available, the cost could be enormous.
According to Daily Faceoff, any serious offer may have to begin with rising forward Matthew Knies.
During a discussion on Werenski’s trade value, Colby Cohen said recent blockbuster deals have created a framework for negotiations.
“I think there’s a roadmap on Werenski because Quinn Hughes was traded,” Cohen said. “So I think there’s at least a roadmap on the return for Werenski.”
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Marco D’Amico believes Columbus general manager Don Waddell is focused on NHL-ready talent rather than future assets.
“He does not want to know anything about prospects and picks. That’s what he’s telling everyone,” D’Amico said.
So clearly, teams with established young players have a clear advantage in negotiations.
Werenski is coming off another dominant season, recording 81 points while averaging more than 26 minutes per game. He has also won a gold medal recently and played an important blue-line role for Team USA.
Additionally, elite defensemen with that production rarely become available, that too with two years remaining on their contracts. So, the pursuit is understandable.
Columbus would want proven talent from Maple Leafs
D’Amico used Toronto as an example of the type of return that could attract Waddell’s attention.
“If Columbus is dealing with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Matt Knies is… four years into his NHL career. That makes more sense as a centerpiece,” D’Amico said.
He then outlined what a realistic blockbuster might require.
“If you’re doing Knies, Cowan or Danford, and a first, I think you get Don Waddell to perk up,” D’Amico said. “Because like, okay, now you have a top-end tangible asset locked in long-term that could come in. Then you could utilize Marchenko if you want to go and get yourself the prime defenseman to replace Werenski.”
Toronto’s interest is hardly surprising. Elliotte Friedman recently said on the 32 Thoughts podcast, “I do think Toronto will try. I 100% believe that Toronto will try.”
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From Toronto’s perspective, the dilemma is obvious. Knies developed into one of the organization’s most valuable young forwards after producing 23 goals and 66 points last season. Trading a cost-controlled power forward for an elite defenseman could improve the blue line immediately, but it would also weaken the team’s forward core.
If the Maple Leafs truly view Werenski as a franchise-altering player, they may have to sacrifice one of their own. That is often the price of acquiring one of the NHL’s best defensemen.
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