Kirill Marchenko's Future Secured with the Blue Jackets
In a move that solidifies their roster for the coming years, the Columbus Blue Jackets have inked restricted free agent forward Kirill Marchenko to a three-year contract extension worth $11.55 million. This new deal ensures that the burgeoning star will remain with the team through the 2026-27 season.
The 24-year-old Marchenko has quickly become an integral part of the Blue Jackets' lineup, showcasing a blend of size, skill, and a knack for finding the back of the net. Marchenko's performance in the last season was nothing short of impressive, as he notched 42 points, comprising 23 goals and 19 assists, across 78 games. His goal-scoring prowess led all Blue Jackets rookies, underlining his importance to the team's offensive output.
Blue Jackets' General Manager, Don Waddell, expressed the significance of retaining Marchenko, emphasizing his contributions in his initial NHL seasons. "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," Waddell remarked. He added, "He has size, skill and the ability to score goals and will continue to be a big part of our core group moving forward."
Marchenko's journey with the Blue Jackets began when he was selected in the second round of the 2018 NHL draft. Following the conclusion of his two-year entry-level deal at the end of the last season, the extension not only secures his immediate future but also highlights the organization's confidence in his continued development and potential.
Over his career, Marchenko has played in 137 games, amassing 67 points, including 44 goals and 23 assists. His ability to consistently contribute offensively has been a welcome boost for the Blue Jackets, who are keen on building a competitive and energetic roster around young talents like him.
In the 2022-23 season, Marchenko demonstrated his durability and consistency, featuring in all but four regular-season games. Such reliability is invaluable for a team looking to establish a sustainable winning culture.
As the Blue Jackets look to the future, the signing of Marchenko is a statement of intent. It not only reflects the team's commitment to nurturing their young talents but also provides Marchenko with the stability and support needed to continue his upward trajectory in the NHL. With the core group of players now more firmly established, Columbus fans have every reason to be optimistic about their team's prospects in the coming seasons.