Overview
- Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell told NHL general managers on Monday that Kirill Marchenko is available but that Columbus will not accept draft picks or prospects and wants an established NHL scorer in return.
- The Toronto Maple Leafs are reported to be in deep discussions with Columbus about a trade for Marchenko, but no offer has met the Blue Jackets’ stated asking price.
- Columbus may condition a deal on the acquiring team taking back unwanted contracts such as Miles Wood or Dmitri Voronkov, a move that would limit the pool of viable suitors.
- Marchenko is a 26‑year‑old winger with about 27 goals and 67 points last season who carries a $3.85 million cap hit for 2026–27 and will be a restricted free agent with arbitration rights next summer.
- The Blue Jackets’ stance gives them leverage to wait for a like‑for‑like return, while interested teams face short‑term cap strain and longer‑term salary questions if they plan to re‑sign Marchenko after this season.