Columbus Blue Jackets head coach Rick Bowness expressed surprise regarding defenseman Zach Werenski's request to be traded, stating he was blindsided by the development.
"I’m as shocked as anyone that these came up," Bowness said, according to The Athletic. "I mean, at the end of the year meetings, we looked each other in the eye and had great meetings and gave each other a hug leaving, and all that. So everything was good. So when all of this broke, I was shocked and caught off-guard like everyone else."
Werenski's trade request comes just weeks after he was awarded the Norris Trophy as the NHL's top defenseman. His current contract with the Blue Jackets extends through the 2027-28 season.
Forward Kirill Marchenko has also reportedly informed the team of his desire for a change of scenery. The Blue Jackets concluded their season with a disappointing stretch that led to them missing the postseason.
Despite the team's struggles, Bowness had conveyed a message to players at the end of the regular season that he had hoped would motivate them. The news of Werenski's request has come as a significant surprise.
Werenski's status as a Norris Trophy winner is expected to increase his trade value, potentially allowing the Blue Jackets to secure a substantial return if a deal is made. Defensemen of his caliber are considered valuable assets in the league.