Cam Atkinson has long been a cornerstone of the Columbus Blue Jackets, holding the franchise marks for short‑handed goals and hat tricks.
A milestone in the making
Kirill Marchenko has logged four hat tricks in just three seasons, positioning him third on the club’s all‑time list and setting the stage for a potential record chase.
If he records two more hat tricks in the upcoming campaign, Marchenko will surpass Atkinson’s tally of six, a milestone that would underscore his rapid ascent.
Beyond the record chase, Marchenko’s statistical footprint is impressive: 102 goals and 208 points in his first four years have already lifted him into the conversation for the team’s top‑five scorers.
General manager Don Waddell has indicated no urgency to move the player, despite speculation that the forward might decline a long‑term deal.
The Hockey News, a leading outlet covering the sport, recently highlighted the narrative, emphasizing both the statistical intrigue and the strategic considerations for the Blue Jackets.
If Marchenko can hit the 40‑goal mark next season, he could also climb into the franchise’s all‑time top five, further cementing his legacy.