Kirill Marchenko #86 of the Columbus Blue Jackets (Photo by Mike Carlson/Getty Images)
Columbus Blue Jackets forward Kirill Marchenko has opened up about his ongoing contract negotiations, his 2023-24 season performance, and his experiences with the team. His frank comments offer a revealing look into the young Russian star's mindset.
On Contract Negotiations
"My contract arbitration hearing is scheduled for July 31st. I'm not worried; 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. If necessary, I will go to arbitration."
Regarding the possibility of a long-term contract, Marchenko was noncommittal: "That depends on the offer. I haven't received any worthy offers yet, so I can't say for sure." He expressed frustration with the slow progress, saying, "Regarding deadline and money, things are progressing slowly. Maybe next week, there will be a more specific offer from the club."
Marchenko is keeping his options open: "I'm considering both a long-term and a bridge contract, but I prefer the process to move faster." He also noted that he hasn't had the opportunity to speak with the new general manager, Don Waddell, adding, "I don't know him personally, and I'm unsure how he'll fit into the team."
On His 2023-24 Season
Reflecting on his performance, Marchenko was brutally honest: "I had mixed feelings about last season because there were some successful periods when I thought I was the best player in the league, but at the same time, there were periods when I couldn't score in 20 games in a row, and there was no consistency. I can't say the season was successful for me, but I also can't call it a failure."
On Coach Pascal Vincent
Marchenko's comments about head coach Pascal Vincent were particularly revealing: "My experience with Pascal Vincent is mixed, I'd say. Sometimes I was scratched, and that wasn't something I was happy about. No player would be." However, he also offered praise: "But overall, Vincent has his vision and goals and seems to be doing well. He loves hockey and is passionate about his job. He's proactive and has a desire to improve. That's what makes him a good leader."
Addressing the much-talked-about Russian line in Columbus, Marchenko said, "As for the Russian trio, the guys and I were asked to put it together. We had a chance, and it turned out great, but we still didn't spend as much time together as we would have preferred."
Off-Season Training
Marchenko detailed his off-season routine: "I have been practicing for a long time. I practice individually in Moscow with a coach who creates an individual plan for me. I started practicing on the ice in June, and today, we will see how well-prepared I am. I had two weeks off and then started going to the gym. Overall, it's a simple training program; for me, it's more like a vacation."
As Kirill Marchenko approaches a critical juncture in his NHL career, his outspoken comments have set the stage for what promises to be an intriguing offseason in Columbus. With contract negotiations ongoing and his frank assessment of team dynamics, all eyes will be on how this situation unfolds in the coming weeks.
Daria Tuboltseva
