Maple Leafs may have to sacrifice Matthew Knies to land Zach Werenski

The Toronto Maple Leafs are expected to pursue defenseman Zach Werenski, who is currently the reigning Norris Trophy winner, from the Columbus Blue Jackets this offseason. However, if the Columbus Blue Jackets make him available, the amount could be huge. According to reports, any realistic trade package for Werenski would likely require Toronto to part with rising star Matthew Knies, as Columbus would demand a significant return for one of the NHL's premier defensemen.Toronto Maple Leafs might need to trade Matthew Knies to land Zach Werenski in a blockbuster trade dealThe Toronto Maple Leafs may have to make a difficult decision if they hope to acquire Norris Trophy-winning defenseman Zach Werenski from the Columbus Blue Jackets this offseason. According to Daily Faceoff, any serious offer may have to begin with rising forward Matthew Knies.During a discussion on Werenski’s trade value, Colby Cohen said recent blockbuster deals have created a framework for negotiations. “I think there’s a roadmap on Werenski because Quinn Hughes was traded. So, I think there’s at least a roadmap on the return for Werenski.”Meanwhile, Werenski has emerged as one of the league's most coveted players of all time. The 28-year-old defenseman, who recently won the Norris Trophy as the NHL's top blueliner, is under contract through the 2028-29 season with an annual cap hit of $9.58 million, making him an attractive long-term addition for any Stanley Cup contender.In fact, Knies has also become one of Toronto’s most valuable young forwards after a strong season with 23 goals and 66 points. The 22-year-old power forward enjoyed a breakout 2025-26 season, recording 66 points while establishing himself as a key piece of Toronto's core. However, moving him would definitely weaken a key part of the Toronto Maple Leafs’ forward core and sacrifice a player viewed as part of the club's future. NHL Insider Marco D’Amico also suggested, “If Columbus is dealing with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Matt Knies is… four years into his NHL career. That makes more sense as a centerpiece."He also further states about Don Waddell, “If you’re doing Knies, Cowan or Danford, and a first, I think you get Don Waddell to perk up because, like, okay, now you have a top-end tangible asset locked in long-term that could come in. Then you could utilize Marchenko if you want to go and get yourself the prime defenseman to replace Werenski.”As the Maple Leafs are busy reshaping their roster after another disappointing playoff exit, with improving the blue line reportedly among the organization's top priorities, Werenski's ability to enter the team will certainly be an ideal fit for Toronto's championship aspirations. However, Columbus has little incentive to move its franchise defenseman unless presented with an overwhelming offer that includes not only Knies but also additional assets, such as draft picks or prospects, to complete the deal. This is just speculation as of now, with no indication that formal trade negotiations are close to completion. But as the NHL offseason continues, Werenski's name remains one of the strong contenders on the trade market.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.