The NHL superstar who abandoned the trade to Dallas fired off a direct message: "It would be no problem for me"

Columbus Blue Jackets superstar Zach Werenski, 29, was actively involved in trade rumors this summer. He was reported to be close to a move to the Dallas Stars. However, due to a clause in Werenski’s contract that prevents a trade, he rejected the move to Dallas.

Now Werenski has commented to the media for the first time about the events of the summer. The defenseman assured that he enjoys being in Columbus and wants to win with the team.

– I think everyone knows how much I love this city and how much it means to me. It wouldn’t be a problem for me to stay here longer. I want to see us in the playoffs and I want to see us develop, Werenski tells The Athletic.

Werenski’s current contract is valid for two more seasons. He earns $9.58 million per season.

– Winning is everything. That’s what we need to achieve as a team. We need to raise our standards and expectations, and that starts with me. I am definitely going to be a better player and leader this year. And hopefully that means I will be here for a long time, Werenski says.

Werenski was rumored to have told Columbus GM Don Waddell that he did not intend to sign an extension with the team, which also fueled trade rumors. Werenski now says he didn’t know how to comment on the time after his current contract back then. Werenski also adds that he has not requested a trade.

Werenski mentions that the situation also put him in the crosshairs of Columbus fans.

– It was tough for about a week. I felt like the situation was interpreted a bit incorrectly. People get their information from somewhere, but they definitely didn’t get it from me.

Werenski adds that he will focus on pursuing success in Columbus and will not respond to questions regarding his future.

Last season, Werenski recorded 75 games with 22+59=81 points. He won the Norris Trophy awarded to the NHL’s best defenseman.