The Edmonton Oilers have spent the offseason looking for another impact winger who can elevate their top six, and few players fit that description better than Columbus Blue Jackets forward Kirill Marchenko. While the Blue Jackets are under no pressure to move the 25-year-old, reports suggesting he may be reluctant to sign a long-term extension have naturally sparked trade speculation around one of the league’s most underrated scorers.

If Columbus ultimately decides to explore the market, one trade proposal could give both organizations exactly what they’re looking for.

Oilers receive:

Blue Jackets receive:

Matthew Savoie

Beau Akey

2028 first-round pick

2028 third-round pick

Oilers Add the Top-Six Scorer They’ve Been Looking For

Marchenko has quietly established himself as one of the NHL’s premier young wingers. Over the past two seasons, he has produced at nearly a point-per-game pace while showcasing an elite shot, strong playmaking ability, and the size to excel in all three zones.

Kirill Marchenko Signs with Blue Jackets

Just as important is his contract. Marchenko carries a cap hit of only $3.85 million through the 2026-27 season, giving Edmonton another high-end offensive weapon without adding a significant financial burden. He would immediately become a natural fit alongside either Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl while giving the Oilers another legitimate scoring threat beyond their superstar duo.

Unlike a rental acquisition, Marchenko would remain under team control as a restricted free agent after his current contract expires, allowing Edmonton to negotiate a long-term extension if both sides see a future together.

Why This Return Makes Sense for Columbus

Trading a player entering his prime is never an easy decision, but if contract negotiations continue to stall, Columbus would likely prioritize acquiring multiple premium assets over simply adding NHL veterans.

Savoie headlines the package as a former first-round pick with legitimate top-six offensive potential. His skill and hockey IQ give him the upside to become a long-term contributor, while Beau Akey adds another promising young defenseman to the organization’s pipeline.

The inclusion of a 2028 first-round pick is perhaps the most significant piece of the deal. History has shown that young, cost-controlled top-six forwards command premium returns. The Brandon Hagel trade saw Chicago receive two first-round picks for a younger winger with less offensive production, while Alex DeBrincat was moved for a package centered around the seventh-overall selection and additional draft capital. Although every situation is different, those deals help establish the market value for players like Marchenko.

Adding a 2028 third-round pick gives Columbus another future asset while allowing Edmonton to avoid parting with multiple elite prospects.

A Deal That Fits Both Timelines

For the Oilers, the price is substantial but reflects the reality of acquiring a 25-year-old top-line winger with term remaining on one of the league’s best contracts. Edmonton would be sacrificing part of its future to maximize its championship window with McDavid and Draisaitl.

For the Blue Jackets, the proposal delivers a strong mix of NHL-ready talent, prospect depth, and valuable draft capital that could accelerate their long-term plans if they ultimately decide Marchenko’s future lies elsewhere. If Columbus ever makes its dynamic winger available, this is the type of package that would likely earn serious consideration.

Next: The Maple Leafs Morgan Rielly Blockbuster Trade Idea — Would You Do It?

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