What Happened
The Toronto Maple Leafs and Columbus Blue Jackets are in deep discussions on a trade that would send forward Kirill Marchenko to Toronto, according to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman. Columbus has granted Toronto permission to discuss a contract extension with Marchenko, who is set to become a restricted free agent after this season. If the deal is completed, goaltender Elvis Merzlikins would also go to Toronto as part of the package.
Key Details
- Marchenko's current contract: three years, $11.5 million, expiring after this season.
- He will be a restricted free agent when the deal ends.
- Columbus allowed Toronto to negotiate an extension with Marchenko.
- Merzlikins would be included in the trade package if it goes through.
- Marchenko, 26, posted 27 goals and 40 assists for 67 points in 76 games last season.
- Roster deadline for opening night is 5 p.m. ET / 2 p.m. PT Monday.
What It Means
Marchenko would give Toronto another top-six forward, while the permission to negotiate an extension suggests the Maple Leafs want him beyond this season. Including Merzlikins would address Toronto's goaltending depth. For Columbus, moving a player who has indicated he won't re-sign would avoid losing him for nothing as a restricted free agent.
What's Next
The two sides continue talks ahead of Monday's 5 p.m. ET roster deadline, according to Friedman. Whether Toronto and Marchenko can agree on an extension will shape the deal. If no trade is reached, Marchenko remains with Columbus, where he has been participating in camp and pre-season games.