What happened: Daria Tuboltseva reports that Columbus is nearing a Kirill Marchenko trade, with Montreal among the clubs linked to the winger. Kirby Dach has surfaced in fan and media proposals, while Don Waddell's stated preference is for players who can fill Marchenko's role.
Why it matters: Dach is signed for only 2026-27 at $3.6 million, giving Columbus no additional contract term. Waddell's roster requirement makes positional fit, rather than simple salary matching, central to the return.
By the numbers: Dach recorded eight goals and 15 points in 37 regular-season games in 2025-26, then added four goals and five points in 19 playoff games. Marchenko carries a $3.85 million cap hit through 2026-27.
What to watch: Watch whether Montreal becomes the club finalizing terms with Columbus and whether the return supplies an NHL-ready replacement.