Sunday NHL Overreactions: Werenski’s Blue Jackets Future in Doubt

Columbus’ rough start and Zach Werenski’s uncertain future are raising questions about how long the Norris Trophy winner will wait for the Blue Jackets to become contenders. The piece also weighs in on four other early-season claims: Auston Matthews is on track for 50 goals, Ottawa can weather Linus Ullmark’s injury, Tampa Bay should pursue Dylan Larkin, and Seattle’s playoff hopes may be premature.

• Columbus has 8 points through 9 games and has missed the playoffs for 6 straight seasons.
• Matthews has 9 goals in 13 games, a 58-goal pace.
• Ottawa has allowed 10 goals in its past 2 games without Ullmark.
• Seattle has won 7 of 12 games, with 15 players recording at least 5 points.

Columbus’ poor results make renewed Werenski trade speculation plausible, but there’s no sign he is about to demand a move. Ottawa’s goaltending situation is a real concern, yet the team limits shots well, has key defensemen back, and has no indication Ullmark will be out long term. Seattle’s balanced scoring has fueled a strong start, but its lack of elite talent could catch up over a full season.

• Werenski can sign an extension next summer; Columbus needs to show progress before uncertainty around his future grows.
• Tampa Bay has reportedly joined the teams on Larkin’s expanded trade list, but a deal would require cap room and a return Detroit values.
• Matthews looks healthier and more involved, while Toronto’s supporting cast and power play could help sustain his scoring.

Columbus’ results will shape whether Werenski trade chatter intensifies. Tampa Bay could pursue Larkin if it can assemble an acceptable package, while Ottawa will need to hold steady until Ullmark returns. Matthews’ early scoring gives him a credible path to 50 goals, but Seattle’s playoff prospects remain less convincing over the long haul.

Early-season momentum can be misleading, but Columbus has a more urgent problem: it must give its best player a reason to believe a winning future is within reach. The other teams face more immediate tests—Ottawa without its top goalie and Tampa Bay weighing the cost of a major trade.