The Columbus Blue Jackets were expected to leave draft week with a focus on beefing up the roster. Instead, Kirill Marchenko’s future has suddenly become one of the league’s biggest talking points after conflicting reports raised fresh questions about his commitment to the franchise.
As speculation spread across the NHL, Montreal’s reported pursuit added even more pressure on Columbus to address the situation. It eventually forced Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell to respond publicly, raising even more questions about Marchenko’s future.
Columbus GM Don Waddell Responds as Canadiens Continue Pursuit of Kirill Marchenko
Marchenko has emerged as one of the NHL’s biggest trade storylines this week after multiple insiders connected him to the Montreal Canadiens. Reports from Frank Seravalli indicate that Montreal made an aggressive push for the Blue Jackets winger, with league sources describing the proposal as a “borderline insane” offer.
The interest comes as Columbus faces uncertainty surrounding Marchenko’s contract, which expires after the 2026-27 season.
The speculation intensified when ESPN insider Kevin Weekes reported on X: “This literally off the press, Marchenko’s camp tells me that as of now he’s unlikely to re-sign with the Blue Jackets as of now.”
Earlier, Weekes also posted, “In speaking to Blue Jackets forward Marchenko’s camp, that new New York Rangers Dorofeyev $11M AAV deal, among others, as a comp.”
These updates immediately fueled questions about whether Columbus could eventually be forced to explore trade options.
Blue Jackets general manager Don Waddell addressed the situation while speaking to reporter Mark Scheig, but his response revealed little. Waddell said, “That was news to me today. I don’t have much comment on that.”
His remarks came shortly after the reports surfaced, suggesting the organization was not prepared to publicly discuss the claim.
While Waddell kept his comments brief, additional reports suggested communication between both sides remains open.
Blue Jackets reporter Jeff Svoboda posted on X, “CBJ GM Don Waddell said he heard from Kirill Marchenko’s agent today, hoping to connect next week to talk about the wing’s future. Saw today’s report, but did not want to comment. In addition, the plan is still to meet with Zach Werenski and his representation after the draft.”
Meanwhile, Montreal’s interest appears to remain strong. NHL insider David Pagnotta wrote, “Some notes: Canadiens seem very interested in Marchenko.” He later added another update, writing, “In addition to the Canadiens having serious interest in Marchenko, hearing the Mammoth are also knocking on that door.”
Marchenko remains an attractive target after producing 27 goals and 67 points in 76 games while carrying a team-friendly $3.85 million cap hit for one more season. However, reports that he could seek an extension worth around $11 million annually have changed the conversation.
If Columbus cannot reach a long-term agreement, interest from Montreal and other teams could continue to grow, making this one of the NHL’s biggest storylines heading into free agency.
