COLUMBUS — The Toronto Maple Leafs are in deep discussions with the Columbus Blue Jackets on a trade that would send forward Kirill Marchenko to Toronto, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reported Monday. Columbus has given Toronto permission to speak with Marchenko about a contract extension as the sides work toward a deal ahead of the opening-night roster deadline.
Marchenko, 26, is entering the final season of his three-year, $11.5-million contract and is scheduled to become a restricted free agent after this season. The Russian winger recorded 27 goals and 40 assists for 67 points in 76 games last season, providing consistent top-six production for Columbus.
Per Friedman, Marchenko has indicated he does not intend to re-sign with the Blue Jackets when his contract expires. He has remained with the team through training camp and has played in pre-season games while Columbus worked to find a trade partner willing to negotiate a new deal.
The talks are unfolding ahead of the deadline to submit opening-night, cap-compliant rosters at 5 p.m. ET / 2 p.m. PT on Monday. Toronto has continued to look for help up front, and adding Marchenko would bring proven scoring, while Columbus would seek a return for a player who does not plan to remain beyond this season.