The Columbus Blue Jackets, currently struggling in the Eastern Conference, made a significant move Friday night, acquiring veteran forward Mason Marchment from the Seattle Kraken. In exchange, the Kraken received a second-round pick in the 2027 NHL Draft and a fourth-round pick in 2026, which Columbus previously acquired from the New York Rangers. This trade, completed just before the NHL's holiday roster freeze, injects size and toughness into the Blue Jackets' lineup.

Marchment, 30, is in the final year of a four-year, $18 million contract with an average annual value of $4.5 million and will become an unrestricted free agent after the season. This season, he has tallied 13 points (four goals and nine assists) in 29 games for Seattle. Throughout his NHL career, which includes stints with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Florida Panthers, and Dallas Stars, Marchment has accumulated 80 goals and 202 points in 331 games.

Columbus Blue Jackets General Manager Don Waddell expressed his familiarity with Marchment and his excitement about the player joining the team. "Mason is a player I know very well, and I think he will add a great deal to our team," Waddell said. "He is a physical, hard-nosed competitor with proven offensive ability and we are very excited to have him join the Blue Jackets."

The Blue Jackets' current standing shows a team tied for last in points in the Eastern Conference. With a record of 14-20-6, they sit near the bottom of the Metropolitan Division. Despite a shaky start to the season, the team is only six points back from a wild-card spot. The acquisition of Marchment signals that the Blue Jackets' management believes the team can still compete for a playoff berth this season.

This trade also involves two teams looking to shake things up after disappointing starts to the season. For the Kraken, currently struggling in the Western Conference, the trade provides additional draft capital and increased cap space. "This trade gives us more draft capital and flexibility as we look to improve our team moving forward," said Kraken General Manager Jason Botterill.

Marchment, who is listed at 6-foot-5 and 215 pounds, brings a significant physical presence to Columbus. His past performance includes two 20-goal seasons, indicating his offensive capabilities. The Blue Jackets hope that Marchment's veteran experience and toughness will provide a boost to their roster.

In a corresponding move, the Blue Jackets announced that forward Brendan Gaunce has been designated as non-roster due to personal reasons. Gaunce has recorded one goal and four points in 12 games with the Blue Jackets this season.

The Blue Jackets' season has been marked by inconsistency, but key players like Zach Werenski have shown moments of brilliance. Captain Boone Jenner recently returned to the lineup after a month-long absence due to injury. The addition of Marchment could provide a needed spark as the team aims to climb the standings.