Kirill Marchenko Signs Three-Year Extension with Blue Jackets
Kirill Marchenko, a restricted free agent forward, has officially signed a three-year contract extension with the Columbus Blue Jackets. The new deal, valued at $11.55 million, ensures that the 24-year-old will remain with the team through the 2026-27 NHL season.
The 24-year-old winger has quickly established himself as a vital player for the Blue Jackets, showing promise and skill over his first two NHL seasons. Having concluded his two-year entry-level contract at the end of last season, Marchenko's extension marks a significant milestone for both the player and the organization.
“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 Don Waddell, echoing the team's sentiments regarding Marchenko's promising career. “He has size, skill and the ability to score goals and will continue to be a big part of our core group moving forward.”
In the 2022-23 season, Marchenko displayed notable consistency and skill, recording 42 points with 23 goals and 19 assists in 78 games. His goal tally led all Blue Jackets rookies, showcasing his knack for finding the back of the net. Marchenko's contributions on the ice were crucial despite the Blue Jackets' overall team struggles. Missing only four regular season games, he proved to be a reliable and durable presence in the lineup.
A second-round pick from the 2018 NHL draft, Marchenko has shown steady development and improvement since joining the league. Over his 137 career NHL games, he has amassed 67 points, including 44 goals and 23 assists, underscoring his potential as a mainstay in the Blue Jackets' offensive framework.
This contract extension not only reflects the Blue Jackets’ confidence in Marchenko's abilities but also solidifies their commitment to building a competitive and cohesive team. With a blend of size, skill, and scoring prowess, Marchenko is expected to continue being a key player for Columbus, contributing significantly to their future endeavors.
As the Blue Jackets prepare for the upcoming seasons, the addition of Marchenko's long-term commitment is poised to bring stability and excitement to the team's roster. Fans and teammates alike will be looking to see how Marchenko leverages this opportunity to further enhance his game and solidify his status as a top-tier player in the NHL.