Toronto Maple Leafs have reported trade interest in star Russian forward

The Toronto Maple Leafs made plenty of changes to their roster over the offseason, and they may not be done adding just yet.

On the latest episode of Sportsnet's 32 Thoughts podcast, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reported that Toronto is among several teams interested in acquiring star Russian forward Kirill Marchenko from the Columbus Blue Jackets.

The Blue Jackets have reportedly been taking calls on Marchenko after rumblings that the 26-year-old wanted a change of scenery.

Marchenko is entering the final year of his three-year, $11.5 million contract and will become a restricted free agent at the end of the 2026-27 season.

Friedman said on the podcast that Toronto has tried to keep its pursuit of Marchenko under wraps, but its interest has nonetheless made its way into the public.

Elliotte Friedman on 32 Thoughts on Kirill Marchenko:

"Toronto I think has really tried to keep their interest secret, but it's kind of seeped out."

Also mentions MTL, NYI, WPG, BOS (made an offer), potentially VGK/SEA too. Friedman says he doesn't think CBJ is really…

— Willyston Riellander (@nylanderthews) September 25, 2026

The Maple Leafs aren't the only team in their division reportedly interested in the Russian forward, who scored 27 goals and recorded 67 points in 76 games last season.

"Teams have been circling around him," Friedman said.

"Montreal everyone knows about. I heard Boston also made an offer at one point."

Blue Jackets general manager Don Waddell told reporters Thursday that the team isn't actively shopping Marchenko, but is willing to listen to offers built around NHL-ready players.

If the Maple Leafs were to put together an offer for Marchenko, they would likely have to part with a potential top-six forward like Matthew Knies or a top prospect such as Easton Cowan or Tinus-Luc Koblar.

“Do you like playing hockey here (in Columbus)?”

Marchenko: yeah, I love to play hockey…

“Here?”

Marchenko: haha, it’s a good question#CBJ video via @mark_scheig pic.twitter.com/DLUNo4cBz6

— Nasher (@TheNasher61) September 18, 2026

As things stand, the Maple Leafs are roughly $2.7 million over the salary cap, but are expected to get under the league's $104 million limit once Max Domi is moved to long-term injured reserve (LTIR).

Fitting Marchenko's $3.8 million cap hit into the roster would take some work. While his salary is relatively cap-friendly this season, the Russian forward is likely in line for a significant raise the moment he hits free agency come July 2027.