Overview
- A July 25 report from RG.com said a source close to Kirill Marchenko told reporters that the Blue Jackets were finalizing a trade, but multiple Columbus beat writers, GM Don Waddell and Marchenko’s agent have since disputed that account and said there are no active, substantive talks.
- Marchenko is a 26-year-old top scorer who recorded 67 points (27 goals, 40 assists) in 76 games last season and is entering the final year of a three-year, $11.55 million contract with a $3.85 million cap hit.
- Because Marchenko will be a restricted free agent with arbitration rights after 2026–27, any acquiring team would likely need to offer substantial draft picks or NHL-ready prospects and plan for an expensive extension.
- Multiple reports have identified the Montreal Canadiens as the most-cited potential suitor, but trusted Habs insiders and Blue Jackets reporters say Montreal would have to surrender premium assets and that key Canadiens prospects are unlikely to be included.
- The situation remains unresolved and could change before training camp; the immediate watch items are whether Columbus opens formal trade talks, whether Marchenko’s camp agrees to an extension, and how the club balances this decision with re-signing RFAs such as Adam Fantilli, Jet Greaves and Cole Sillinger.