Canadiens pursue Marchenko as re-signing odds drop

Kirill Marchenko enters his final contract year at $3.85 million after agents stated he is unlikely to re-sign with the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Canadiens interest and Columbus response

Columbus GM Don Waddell confirmed multiple calls on Marchenko yet none matched the forward’s value to the club. Waddell noted Marchenko has been the team’s leading goal scorer in recent seasons. The Canadiens received confirmation of serious interest according to David Pagnotta. Utah Mammoth also registered interest per the same report.

Marchenko’s $3.85 million cap hit for 2026-27 contrasts with Columbus’ need to improve the roster overall. Waddell stated any deal must make the team better without lowering its ceiling. Columbus rejected several offers already described as far below Marchenko’s contribution level.

Montreal’s pursuit aligns with its window to add proven scoring before the 2026-27 season. The one remaining year on Marchenko’s deal creates a defined trade timeline ending June 30 2026. Agents’ public comments increase leverage for acquiring teams seeking cost-controlled production.

Columbus listed Marchenko as an important piece yet open to listening. Waddell emphasized his role as GM requires evaluating every offer received. The gap between current offers and Marchenko’s on-ice value remains the central obstacle.

Contract timeline and market dynamics

Marchenko’s contract expires after the 2026-27 campaign leaving Columbus with one year of control. Agents indicated re-signing probability is low as of June 2026. This stance shifts Marchenko toward trade discussions rather than extension talks.

Columbus finished recent seasons relying on Marchenko’s goal totals for offense. Losing him without return assets would create a scoring void entering 2027 free agency. The $3.85 million figure provides a predictable cost for any acquiring club through 2027.

Montreal can absorb the remaining year while evaluating Marchenko before unrestricted free agency. Other interested parties such as Utah add competition that may raise the required compensation. Columbus must weigh retaining Marchenko against the risk of losing him for nothing in 2027.

Waddell described incoming offers as insufficient relative to Marchenko’s production and role. The Blue Jackets continue to field calls without initiating their own outreach on the forward. This passive approach preserves leverage until a suitable package arrives.

Path to a 2026 trade

A completed deal before July 1 2026 would allow Montreal to integrate Marchenko immediately for training camp. Columbus would receive assets usable in further roster moves during the same window. The agent comments accelerate the timeline by removing extension as a realistic Columbus option.

Montreal’s cap structure supports adding the $3.85 million hit without major restructuring. Columbus could use acquired picks or prospects to address other needs identified by Waddell. Both clubs face clear incentives to act before the unrestricted free-agency period opens.

The combination of one year left and public re-signing reluctance creates the conditions for a trade this summer. Montreal’s established interest positions the club ahead of later bidders if Columbus decides to move the forward.