Marchenko Trade Interest and Werenski Talks Shape 2026 Blue Jackets Path

Montreal Canadiens, Utah Mammoth, Seattle Kraken and Philadelphia Flyers have all expressed interest in acquiring Kirill Marchenko from the Blue Jackets.

Marchenko draws four-team bidding

David Pagnotta reported that Columbus has fielded calls on Marchenko from four clubs already this summer. The 26-year-old forward posted 23 goals in 2024-25, giving suitors a cost-controlled scoring piece under contract for two more seasons.

Columbus prefers to keep Marchenko but will weigh packages that include established forwards rather than futures alone. Montreal and Philadelphia both finished outside the playoffs in 2025-26 yet hold cap space to absorb salary.

Utah Mammoth and Seattle Kraken view Marchenko as a middle-six upgrade that fits their timelines. Each club finished with 88-92 points last season, one win from a wild-card spot.

The Blue Jackets have rejected three preliminary offers that contained only draft picks and prospects. Columbus management stated internally that any Marchenko deal must include at least one NHL-ready player.

Werenski negotiations enter critical phase

Zach Werenski holds a no-movement clause and two years remaining at an $9.583 million cap hit. Chris Johnston noted on TSN that Columbus is still sorting packages from six interested teams including Dallas Stars, Philadelphia Flyers, Toronto Maple Leafs, Tampa Bay Lightning and Carolina Hurricanes.

The Blue Jackets insist any return centers on players rather than picks alone. Dallas and Tampa both finished in the top five of the 2025-26 standings and can offer roster players who immediately help Columbus.

Werenski must eventually approve the destination because of his clause. The longer talks stretch past the July 1 free-agency window the fewer options remain for both sides.

Carolina and Toronto finished within three points of each other in the East last season yet differ sharply in defensive depth, influencing what Columbus could extract.

Extensions loom for Andersson and Carlson

Rasmus Andersson is expected to sign an extension with the Vegas Golden Knights rather than reach free agency. Chris Johnston stated the deal remains on track as of June 30 2026.

John Carlson has been in contract discussions with the Carolina Hurricanes for the past 48 hours. Johnston assessed that Carlson likes the prospect of playing in Carolina and that talks are headed in the right direction.

Vegas finished with 107 points in 2025-26 while Carolina reached the second round of the playoffs. Both clubs prioritize stability on the blue line before training camp opens in September.