Marchenko Trade Coming Imminently for Blue Jackets: Report
It sounds like there could be a significant development in Columbus on the Kirill Marchenko front. We heard the rumors earlier this offseason that Marchenko could be on the move, as he heads into the final year of his contract and is not intending to re-sign with the team. But Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell was standing firm, saying that he expected Marchenko to start the season with the team, while dismissing any immediate plans to trade him.
On Saturday, however, a new report has emerged out of Russia that claims that the four-time 20+ goal scorer could be traded "soon."
source close to Kirill Marchenko says "the Blue Jackets winger is nearing a trade, with two NHL clubs now negotiating the final terms of a deal that could reshape the league's summer market."Une journaliste russe du média assez sérieux RG Media affirme que Marchenko sera bel et bien échangé cet été et que des discussions assez avancées auraient lieu, d’une part, entre CBJ et une autre équipe, et d’autre part entre cette équipe et Marchenko. À suivre. https://t.co/pappLCpVvZ
— Paul Ryan (@AvocadoPaul) July 25, 2026
"Kirill is essentially between two teams right now," a source close to the player told RG.org. "The parties are now negotiating the terms of the trade."
The Jackets, it was said, were not been actively shopping Marchenko, but they have been willing to listen to offers.
The 25-year-old Russian forward had another excellent year in Columbus, with 27 goals and 40 assists for 67 points across 76 games, along with a plus/minus rating of +7. He has led the Jackets in scoring for three straight seasons.
He'll earn $3.85M on the final year of his deal and is set to become a restricted free agent with arbitration rights after the season.
The Montreal Canadiens have been rumored to have strong interest in Marchenko as the team is still in the market for a top-six forward who can put the puck in the net. They are still considered a prime candidate and might be the team in advanced talks.