Kirill Marchenko Traded to Maple Leafs, New Contract and Blue Jackets' Return Revealed in NHL Rumors
The Toronto Maple Leafs have acquired right-winger Kirill Marchenko from the Columbus Blue Jackets in a trade involving Matthew Knies. The move follows failed contract extension talks between Marchenko and Columbus, with Toronto planning to sign him to a new deal.
Why it matters
This trade significantly impacts the Maple Leafs' offensive roster strategy for the 2026-27 NHL season and highlights the competitive market for high-performing restricted free agents.
00:25 Featured Video Eichel Goal vs. Mammoth Home NHL Jason Mowry/Getty Images NHL Kirill Marchenko Traded to Maple Leafs, New Contract Details and Blue Jackets' Return Revealed Scott Polacek Sep 28, 2026 The Toronto Maple Leafs are adding some offensive firepower to their roster ahead of the 2026-27 NHL season with the addition of right-winger Kirill Marchenko.
After NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reported Monday the Maple Leafs were in "deep" trade talks for the Columbus Blue Jackets right-winger, Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic reported the deal was happening and also involved Matthew Knies:
Latest NHL Trade Rumors ✍️ Bleacher Report 2d Trade Ideas for Quinn Hughes 💡 Bleacher Report 8h New NHL Rule Changes 📃 Bleacher Report 1d Friedman reported on the additional players and noted Toronto will also extend Marchenko with a new deal:
The trade was the conclusion of an ongoing process on Monday:
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