Werenski Watch: Sharks Reportedly Interested In Norris Winner

BUFFALO — There is no better defenseman to make a significant impact on the San Jose Sharks than Zach Werenski.

According to multiple reports, the Sharks have a serious interest in acquiring the 2026 Norris Trophy winner from the Columbus Blue Jackets.

“You can absolutely count the Dallas Stars, Philadelphia Flyers, San Jose Sharks, and Hurricanes among the early teams with interest,” Aaron Portzline from The Athletic reports.

Although Werenski hasn’t formally requested a trade, questions loom about his future in Ohio. Werenski and agent Judd Moldaver will reportedly meet with the CBJ front office following the conclusion of the 2026 NHL Draft. Werenski hasn’t played in the Stanley Cup Playoffs since 2020 and was a big part of Team USA’s Gold Medal in 2026.

Should the San Jose Sharks land the 28-year-old, the price will be high. GM Mike Grier has all the trade assets needed to make a deal for Werenski, but he won’t overpay. There is also the question of whether Werenski will sign an extension with the Sharks when his current contract ends in the summer of 2028.

Werenski has full control over where he plays next season if he gets traded. The defenseman has a full no-move clause through the end of this season. In 75 games this season, Werenski had 81 points (22 goals, 59 assists). He averaged 26:37 time on ice per game.

Despite needing to fill out the right side of the blue line, the Sharks would happily take Werenski. He would pair extremely well with Macklin Celebrini. Celebrini’s meteoric rise has NHL players taking the San Jose Sharks off their no-trade lists.

Werenski is and will continue to be the talk of the off-season.