The NHL rumor mill has taken a new turn, moving away from a potential deal that would have sent Columbus Blue Jackets winger Kirill Marchenko to Montreal and toward a fresh debate surrounding New York Rangers defenseman Braden Schneider.
The Columbus Stance
Columbus General Manager Don Waddell has publicly denied any recent discussions about moving Marchenko, even as the 26‑year‑old prepares to become a restricted free agent with arbitration rights in the summer of 2026.
Montreal pundit Herb Zurkowsky of The Montreal Gazette has speculated that acquiring Marchenko could require a package that includes top prospect Alexander Zharovsky or forward Michael Hage, while veteran analyst Stu Cowan has warned that the Canadiens’ interest may be premature.
Marco D’Amico of The Starr & D’Amico Show dismissed the notion of the Canadiens pursuing Kent Johnson as a fallback option, suggesting the team may instead explore other avenues.
Schneider's Contract Conundrum
Braden Schneider, a 24‑year‑old blue‑liner who has seen his ice time expand this season, recently signed a one‑year, $5.5 million contract that keeps him under Rangers control through 2026 while retaining his restricted‑free‑agent status.
Analyst Kevin Weekes has pointed out that Schneider’s new deal adds a layer of complexity to any potential trade, making teams think twice before including him in a package.
Shane Wright, a forward for the Seattle Kraken, is under contract through 2026, further illustrating the depth of talent that could be mobilized in trade discussions.
The broader market reaction reflects a willingness among contending clubs to leverage young talent for immediate offensive upgrades, a strategy that could reshape the line‑ups of several teams before the next trade deadline.
Whether the Canadiens decide to pursue Marchenko or the Rangers entertain offers for Schneider, the ongoing negotiations underscore how quickly NHL storylines can pivot, keeping fans and analysts alike watching the next move with keen interest.