20-goal scorer disrespected by the Columbus Blue Jackets: tensions high

After back-to-back 20-goal seasons for the Blue Jackets, one would expect the team to be excited about Russian winger Kirill Marchenko, who projects to be a top line winger alongside Johnny Gaudreau and Sean Monahan next season. Unfortunately, that isn't quite the case, as there has been a shock revelation about his contract situation with the team this summer.

According to reports, with the arbitration meeting set for July 31st, Marchenko is still yet to receive an official contract offer from Columbus, with GM Don Waddell yet to talk to Marchenko or his representation. There's still plenty of time before that meeting, and with both other Blue Jackets RFA's inking new deals this summer, this comes as a major surprise, especially given his production in his first two NHL seasons.

Marchenko made his NHL debut back in 2022-23, tallying 21 goals and 25 points, and although he struggled somewhat in his second year, he took a step forward, netting 23 goals and adding 19 assists. Now, we will wait and see if something can get done, but at 23-years of age, the future is bright for Marchenko, who fits the Blue Jackets timeline, so the hope from the players perspective is to get a long-term deal done and remain witht he team, but only time will tell what happens with this situation.