Update: The proposed trade between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Columbus Blue Jackets is taking shape, but it remains far from complete. Pierre LeBrun reports that the discussions involve multiple pieces, including Matthew Knies and Kirill Marchenko. Both teams are still working through the details.
Elliotte Friedman first reported Monday that Toronto and Columbus were deep in trade discussions involving Marchenko. LeBrun subsequently reported that Marchenko’s agent, Dan Milstein, had permission to discuss a contract extension with the Maple Leafs. Chris Johnston said no extension was in place, with those talks expected to pick up this afternoon.
Knies’ inclusion changes the scale of the potential deal. Toronto would be giving up an established young forward to acquire Marchenko, rather than building an offer entirely around prospects and picks. The other pieces have not been identified, so it is too early to judge the full value for either club.
An extension is another part of Toronto’s calculation. Before committing Knies and additional assets, the Leafs would want to know whether they can keep Marchenko beyond his current contract and what that commitment would cost. Meanwhile, Columbus must decide whether the complete package improves its roster enough to move the winger.
The talks are serious enough for the teams to discuss specific players and for Toronto to speak with Marchenko’s agent. No trade or extension has been finalized, though, and the proposed terms could still change as negotiations continue.
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