Columbus Blue Jackets
· 2026-06-28
The Columbus Blue Jackets are facing a potentially devastating offseason as Kirill Marchenko is unlikely to re-sign with the team.
The news comes after reigning Norris Trophy winner Zach Werenski announced he isn't planning to sign a contract extension with the Blue Jackets.
Columbus is currently 11th in the Eastern Conference with a 40-30 record, on a two-game losing streak.
Losing Marchenko and Werenski would be a significant blow to the team's chances of returning to playoff contention.
Marchenko has emerged as a star forward, amassing 74 points in 79 games in 2024-25 and 67 points in 76 contests this past season.
The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun reported that Marchenko's camp has informed the team he's unlikely to re-sign, but hasn't asked for a trade.
Several teams, including the Montreal Canadiens, are interested in Marchenko, but Blue Jackets' GM has no intention of trading him this summer.
The 25-year-old Marchenko has one season remaining on his contract, which will pay him $3.85 million, and will be a restricted free agent next summer.
And with the 2026 NHL Draft underway, the Blue Jackets are one of the top teams to watch as they navigate an increasingly complicated offseason.
But the team's struggles with contract extensions and potential trades have raised questions about their future.
So the Blue Jackets will have to make some tough decisions soon to maximize their trade value.
The team's current standing and record make it clear that they need to make some changes to compete in the Eastern Conference.
As the offseason continues, the Blue Jackets will be a team to watch, with many wondering what the future holds for Marchenko and Werenski.