The Columbus Blue Jackets' acquisition of Mason Marchment from the Seattle Kraken on Friday, December 19, 2025, has been given new context following public comments from defenseman Zach Werenski. The trade, which saw Columbus send a second- and a fourth-round pick to Seattle, occurred right before the NHL roster freeze. While on the surface, it appeared to be a straightforward transaction to improve the team's roster, the timing and circumstances suggest a deeper motivation.
Werenski's frustration with the team's persistent losing streak became public just days before the trade. He didn't hold back, stating, "It's getting old that we keep losing. Enough is enough. It's unacceptable". He further emphasized the players' responsibility in reversing their fortunes, adding, "We're all sick of (losing). At the end of the day, it's on no one else but us to get ourselves out of it...that's unacceptable".
General Manager and President of Hockey Operations for the Blue Jackets, Don Waddell, apparently took Werenski's comments to heart. According to Elliotte Friedman, the organization felt a sense of urgency to act, not simply because Marchment became available, but because the team's morale needed a boost. This aligns with Waddell's history of addressing team needs proactively.
The Blue Jackets have struggled this season, entering Saturday's game in Anaheim averaging 2.88 goals per game, which ranks 21st in the NHL. Their goals-against average of 3.50 is the worst in the Eastern Conference. The acquisition of Marchment is expected to address some of these issues. Waddell described Marchment as "a physical, hard-nosed competitor with proven offensive ability".
Werenski has been a standout performer for the Blue Jackets, leading the team in goals (13), assists (25), and points (38) through 34 games. Despite his individual success, the team has struggled to find consistency, leading to Werenski's public expression of frustration. In a game against the Anaheim Ducks, coach Dean Evason said that Werenski "willed that team (on Tuesday),". Werenski himself has stated, "I just play my game, to be honest... I think it's important to lead by example, and that's doing what you're capable of".
The trade for Marchment signals that the Blue Jackets still believe they can salvage the season. With two games remaining before the Christmas break, the team aims to capitalize on the opportunity to gain valuable points in California. Acquiring Marchment without giving up significant assets was a calculated move, indicating a low-risk approach with the potential for a high reward. More importantly, it demonstrates that Waddell responded to the message coming from the locker room. It is now up to the players to rally and turn their season around.
