San Jose Sharks Linked to Zach Werenski Trade

The San Jose Sharks are being linked to a potential trade for Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski, who has requested a move out of Columbus.

The Sharks, currently 11th in the Western Conference with a 39-35 record, could benefit from Werenski's elite defensive skills.

What's behind Werenski's trade request?

Werenski, the James Norris Memorial Trophy winner, has played his entire 10-year career in Columbus but wants out after the Blue Jackets missed the playoffs for six straight seasons.

The 28-year-old Werenski has a no-movement clause, giving him control over his destination.

Why San Jose Sharks are a potential fit

The Sharks have a young and talented core, including Hart Memorial Trophy candidate Macklin Celebrini, and could be an attractive option for Werenski.

The team's general manager, Mike Grier, may try to swing a big trade for Werenski to bolster the Sharks' defense.

The Sharks nearly reached the playoffs last season, and another year of development for their core, plus an elite defenseman like Werenski, could get them back into the playoffs.

What does the Sharks' roster look like?

The Sharks have drafted two defensemen in the first round, Keaton Verhoeff and Ryan Lin, but could still use a veteran defenseman like Werenski.

The team has been linked to acquiring other defensemen, including Toronto's Morgan Rielly and Edmonton's Darnell Nurse, but Werenski is a superior player.

The Sharks have a clear need for a player like Werenski and have the cap space to absorb his contract.

How likely is a Werenski trade to San Jose?

The Athletic's Shayna Goldman and Aaron Portzline identified the Sharks as one of eight potential destinations for Werenski, citing the team's rising status and young talent.

Werenski's motivation for leaving Columbus is reportedly to play for a Stanley Cup contender, but the Sharks' exciting young core could be enticing.

The Sharks are on a W1 streak and will look to build on their current momentum with or without Werenski.

And with their deep asset pool, the Sharks have the resources to make a trade happen.

But the Sharks will face competition from other teams looking to acquire Werenski's services.

So the question remains whether the Sharks can pull off a trade for the elite defenseman.

The Sharks' fans will be watching closely to see how this situation develops.