Columbus Blue Jackets superstar defenseman Zach Werenski has been one of the hottest topics going into free agency, although he isn't a UFA. 

Werenski has been a popular topic of trade rumors and speculation, and he reportedly vetoed a trade on Tuesday night.

Here is everything you need to know about Werenski's situation, where he could be heading, and how we got here, based on what insiders have reported in the past couple of days.

On NHL draft day, TSN's Pierre LeBrun reported that Werenski is unlikely to re-sign with the Blue Jackets when his contract expires after the 2027-28 campaign. Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reported that Werenski would play out his current contract but would not commit to an extension, which he can't even sign until next summer.

In a way, that forced Columbus GM Don Waddell to look around for teams who are interested in the services of the reigning Norris Trophy winner. 

Werenski's trade value will only get lower as his contract slowly runs out, and Waddell won't want to lose a player of his stature for no assets in return while the team tries to make the playoffs.

Columbus likely wants high-caliber roster players to help the team today rather than just future assets.

On Tuesday night, Friedman reported there was a deal in place between the Blue Jackets and the Dallas Stars for Werenski. 

It was reported that Stars defenseman Thomas Harley would have been a part of that deal.

With Werenski's no-move clause, he can control where he goes and ultimately vetoed a trade to Dallas. The understanding is that he would prefer to remain in the Eastern Conference.

With the Stars no longer a candidate to land Werenski, three Eastern Conference teams seem to be the highest on the list of remaining suitors.

The Philadelphia Flyers have been mentioned, but the two teams that appear to be the favorites to acquire the 28-year-old are the Tampa Bay Lightning and Toronto Maple Leafs.

The Lightning and Leafs don't have an abundance of assets to give up for Werenski like the Stars did. However, if those are the two destinations that Werenski truly desires, Waddell won't have much of a choice if he wants to move him.

On Wednesday morning, TSN's Darren Dreger said the Maple Leafs may be able to get Werenski without giving up 23-year-old left winger Matthew Knies in a trade.

Stay tuned for updates throughout July 1 if and when they come in.

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