Kirill Marchenko is suddenly at the center of one of the NHL’s most interesting trade stories, with Elliotte Friedman reporting Monday that the Toronto Maple Leafs are in deep trade talks for the Columbus Blue Jackets right wing.
The timing makes sense. Marchenko is 26 years old, coming off back-to-back productive seasons, and Columbus and Marchenko still have not agreed to a contract extension. After the upcoming season, he is scheduled for restricted free agency, which gives the Blue Jackets a clear reason to at least listen if they believe a deal could bring back value.
Why Marchenko is drawing attention
Marchenko’s recent production explains why so many teams have been mentioned in connection with him. In 2024-25, he posted 74 points with 43 assists and 31 goals. In 2025-26, he followed that up with 67 points, 40 assists and 27 goals. Those are the kind of numbers that put a player on the radar of contenders looking for scoring help.
Friedman said Montreal, the Islanders, Toronto, Winnipeg, Boston, Vegas and Seattle had all been mentioned in connection with Marchenko. He also said Toronto has tried to keep its interest quiet, while Boston made an offer at one point. Friedman added that he has heard Vegas mentioned by some sources, though not everyone was certain it was Vegas, and he believes Seattle is around the mix because the club has been trying to add a top-end player.
What it could mean for Columbus and Toronto
For Columbus, the decision is straightforward in theory but difficult in practice. Marchenko is one of the team’s most productive forwards, and moving him would mean giving up a proven scorer. Still, if the Blue Jackets do not have a contract extension in place and are looking ahead to restricted free agency, this is the type of player who can surface in serious trade talks.
For Toronto, the fit is obvious. The Maple Leafs missed the playoffs last year after nine consecutive postseason appearances, so adding another high-end winger would be a clear attempt to reset quickly. Marchenko would bring scoring punch and age profile to a team that would likely welcome both.
Nothing is done yet, but Friedman’s report makes the situation worth watching closely. Marchenko is productive, the contract picture is unsettled, and several teams appear to be in the conversation. That combination usually means the rumor cycle is only beginning.
