Kirill Marchenko potentially available for trade in Columbus

Columbus Blue Jackets general manager Don Waddell has indicated that forward Kirill Marchenko is available for trade if the right deal is presented. Marchenko, who is the team’s leading goal scorer with a $3.85 million cap hit, has been the subject of ongoing trade speculation throughout the offseason.

Waddell stated that while Marchenko is an important part of the roster, he is not opposed to listening to offers that benefit the Blue Jackets. The potential move is reportedly influenced by Columbus’s future financial constraints, specifically the need to secure a new contract for star center Adam Fantilli.

The Montreal Canadiens have been heavily linked to Marchenko as they seek to bolster their top-six forward depth. Canadiens general manager Kent Hughes has been actively searching for talent to improve the roster, and Marchenko’s recent absence from a team golf tournament has further fueled speculation regarding his long-term future in Columbus.