Overview
- Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell told local media that Marchenko is expected to attend training camp and that teams have inquired but any trade would have to materially benefit Columbus.
- Marchenko is on a one‑year bridge contract with a $3.85 million cap hit and posted roughly 27 goals and 40 assists last season, making him a valuable short‑term asset.
- The club currently holds about $12.6 million in salary‑cap space which gives Columbus flexibility now but that cushion could shrink once Fantilli’s new deal is signed.
- Market chatter names the Montreal Canadiens and Edmonton Oilers as possible suitors but reports conflict and Marchenko’s agent has publicly engaged on social media without confirming a move.
- Roster health and development choices are also in play, with Rasmus Sandin rehabbing an ACL and likely to miss early games and prospect Jett Luchanko slated for a full AHL season, factors that could affect short‑term cap and lineup decisions.