Zach Werenski Emerges as Key Target for Multiple NHL Teams

WHO:

Pro Football Network - Zach Werenski is a key player in the NHL trade market.

Sportskeeda - The Carolina Hurricanes, Philadelphia Flyers, and Dallas Stars are interested in acquiring Zach Werenski.

WHAT:

Newsweek - The Winnipeg Jets almost traded star goaltender Connor Hellebuyck to the Buffalo Sabres during the NHL draft.

Pro Football Network - The Maple Leafs are expected to pursue a veteran three-time Stanley Cup champion if he reaches free agency this summer.

Pro Football Network - The Edmonton Oilers researched a trade for a young Sabres goalie during the NHL Draft as part of their ongoing search for a goaltender.

Bleacher Report - The San Jose Sharks selected Ivar Stenberg with the second overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. Stenberg totaled 33 points in 43 games in the 2025-26 season, with a +/- of 10.

Bleacher Report - The Sharks' general manager Mike Grier received praise for addressing key needs during the draft, including selecting three defensemen and one goalie among their last five picks.

Newsweek - A surprise team has emerged as a potential favorite to acquire Zach Werenski from the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Sportskeeda - Zach Werenski's future in Columbus suddenly appears far less certain.

Pro Football Network - The Maple Leafs are considered a major contender in the trade race for Zach Werenski.

Sportskeeda - Zach Werenski is expected to be one of the biggest names on the trade market this summer.

WHERE:

Pro Football Network - The Maple Leafs are the only Canadian team that Zach Werenski may consider for a trade.

WHY:

Pro Football Network - A Blue Jackets insider criticized Columbus' handling of the Zach Werenski situation as uncertainty grows around two of the team's biggest stars.

Pro Football Network - The Maple Leafs' status as the only Canadian team may provide them with a significant advantage in the trade negotiations for Zach Werenski.

The Winnipeg Jets nearly traded star goaltender Connor Hellebuyck to the Buffalo Sabres during the NHL draft, highlighting the team's willingness to make significant moves. Meanwhile, the Maple Leafs are gearing up to pursue a veteran three-time Stanley Cup champion if he becomes available in free agency this summer. Additionally, the Edmonton Oilers have been looking into a trade for a young Sabres goalie as they continue their search for a goaltender.