Could Marchenko Be the Missing Piece on Matthews’ Wing?
One of the biggest questions facing the Toronto Maple Leafs heading into the 2026-27 season remains who will play alongside Auston Matthews. Toronto has changed almost every part of the roster, but the search for the right fit on Matthews’ wing remains unfinished. The Maple Leafs have added size, toughness, and depth, but finding a true top-six right winger could be the move that changes everything.
Who might be a strong right-winger for Matthews?
That’s why a player like Kirill Marchenko is so interesting. The Columbus Blue Jackets forward has reportedly made it clear that he does not plan to sign long-term in Columbus when his current contract expires. With one year remaining on his contract at a very reasonable $3.85 million, he represents exactly the kind of opportunity that a team like Toronto should be exploring.
The numbers suggest Marchenko is more than just a big winger with potential. After scoring 21 goals in his first full NHL season, he followed that with 23 goals before breaking out with 31 goals and 74 points in 79 games in 2024-25. He followed that up with another strong season, posting 27 goals and 67 points in 2025-26. He is big, skilled, responsible, and still entering the prime years of his career.
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What might be the dream line that would get Matthews going again?
Imagine the possibilities. Matthews centring a line with Matthew Knies and Marchenko would give the Maple Leafs a combination of size, skill, and scoring ability that fits the style John Chayka appears to be building. It would not just be another offensive addition. It would be a player who could change the top line’s identity.
The challenge, of course, is the cost. Columbus knows exactly what it has in Marchenko, and if other teams believe he is available, the asking price will not be small. But this is where Chayka’s offseason philosophy becomes important. The Maple Leafs do not need to collect more pieces. They need to find the right pieces.
Some players check all the boxes. But can they be picked up?
Marchenko might be one of those rare players who checks almost every box. He is young enough to grow with the core, established enough to contribute immediately, and talented enough to make people around him better. If Chayka is still looking for that final top-six addition, Marchenko is the type of name that could make Maple Leafs fans pay attention.