RFA Kirill Marchenko Upset At Lack of a "Worthy" Offer From Blue Jackets

After back-to-back 20-goal seasons to start his NHL career, restricted free agent Kirill Marchenko is frustrated at the lack of talks around a new contract with the Columbus Blue Jackets.

In fact, the 24-year-old winger says he has yet to have a conversation with new GM Don Waddell.

Kirill Marchenko told me he's never had a worthy offer from the @bluejacketsnhl and haven't had a conversation with Don Waddell #CBJ pic.twitter.com/THUSIzCMHl
— Daria Tuboltseva (@DariaTuboltseva) July 20, 2024

Marchenko says he hasn't received anything close to a proper offer.

I haven't received any worthy offers yet, so I can't say for sure. Regarding deadline and money, things are progressing slowly.

"I’m considering both a long-term and a bridge contract, but I prefer the process to move faster,” Marchenko added.

The fact that there have been no talks at all with Waddell leaves Marchenko questioning things. "I don't know him personally, and I'm unsure how he'll fit into the team."

The 6'3", 187 forward is due for arbitration if nothing can be worked out, but he's not looking forward to that. "I just don't want to go to Toronto [for the hearing]," Marchenko stated. "If we don't reach an agreement before that date, it would be better if I flew to the hearing."

Marchenko broke into the NHL in 2022-23 with Columbus after having been a second-round selection of the team in the 2018 NHL Entry Draft. He had a surprisingly good first year in North America, popping 21 goals in 59 contests.

His game became much more well-rounded this past season, as he upped his assist total from just four to 19, while finding the twine another 23 times, in 78 games. He shows some exciting goal-scoring talent.