Kirill Marchenko's Future Depends On One Factor, per NHL Insider

Wednesday, August 12, 2026
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Kirill Marchenko's future in Columbus is very much up in the air at this point. Ever since it was reported that Marchenko is unlikely to re-sign next summer as a restricted free agent, rumors have been circulating about the player wanting out, though both sides have pushed back on that. He has just one season remaining on his three-year, $3.85 million AAV deal. There's currently no talk of an extension.

The Blue Jackets are facing some major upcoming financial commitments to other young core pieces like Adam Fantilli, and their $13.5 million cap space will be completely eaten (if not more) by the former 3rd overall pick. 

As for Marchenko, the 26-year-old had another excellent season with the Jackets in 2025-26, with 27 goals and 67 points along with a plus/minus rating of +7. That followed up a 31-goal season the year before. His trade value is at a high point, but Columbus does not feel inclined to move him at this point. 

According to insider Jeff Marek on Daily Faceoff's DFO Rundown, one major factor will ultimately determine if the Russian forward is still a Blue Jacket at this time next year. 

“I think it depends on the season they have. He could try to force his way out of there. And in this era where players very much can force their way out of situations with the help of agents, (they) can make things quite public. 

"I really like the Columbus Blue Jackets... I really want Columbus to do well. The problem is everybody around them is getting better... and they’re having a really hard time here. 

"I think they’ve got a tall order ahead of them here, and I think that Marchenko all depends on what the season’s like. If it’s a good season, he stays. If not, there might be issues."

The Blue Jackets faded down the stretch last season, winning only 2 of their last 10 games, forcing head coach Rick Bowness into an all-time epic rant that will go down in NHL history. 


If Bowness is still feeling that way about his team this coming season, it sounds like, per Marek, Marchenko will not be back. 
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