Kirill Marchenko Inks Three-Year Extension with Blue Jackets
In a significant move for the franchise, the Columbus Blue Jackets have agreed to terms on a three-year, $11.55 million contract extension with their restricted free agent forward, Kirill Marchenko. This extension will see the promising young forward remain with the team through the 2026-27 season.
The 24-year-old Marchenko has been a notable presence for the Blue Jackets since breaking into the NHL. Following the conclusion of his two-year entry-level contract at the end of last season, the extension reflects the team's confidence in his abilities and potential. "Kirill Marchenko has been an important player for the Blue Jackets during his first two NHL seasons and reaching an agreement to keep him in Columbus was important to us," said Blue Jackets General Manager Don Waddell.
Marchenko, who was selected in the second round of the 2018 NHL draft, has shown steady improvement and impressive skill on the ice. Last season, he recorded 42 points, consisting of 23 goals and 19 assists, across 78 games. This performance highlighted his scoring capability, further emphasized by the fact that his 23 goals led all Blue Jackets rookies. Waddell highlighted Marchenko's attributes, stating, "He has size, skill and the ability to score goals and will continue to be a big part of our core group moving forward."
Throughout his burgeoning career, Marchenko has played 137 games, amassing 67 points with 44 goals and 23 assists. His knack for finding the back of the net has made him a key player in Columbus's forward line. This consistency and promise have been on display in his ability to compete in nearly every game of the 2022-23 season, missing only four regular season matchups.
As Marchenko enters this new phase of his career with the Blue Jackets, fans and analysts alike will be keen to see how his development continues. The faith shown by the management in securing his services for the next three years underscores the belief that Marchenko will play a pivotal role in the team's future success.