Feb 2, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Stars center Roope Hintz (24) and Columbus Blue Jackets right wing Kirill Marchenko (86) chase the puck during the second period at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

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Blue Jackets Kirill Marchenko Sidelined With Broken Jaw

Columbus forward Kirill Marchenko faces extended absence after suffering a broken jaw, dealing a blow to the Blue Jackets’ lineup.

The Columbus Blue Jackets suffered a tough blow during their loss to the Dallas Stars last night, as forward Kirill Marchenko sustained a broken jaw. According to The Athletic’s Aaron Portzline, a team source confirmed that Marchenko was struck in the jaw by an errant puck during the second period and was taken to a nearby hospital.

While the team hasn’t announced a timeline for his recovery, similar injuries typically require six to eight weeks of healing. The timing couldn’t be worse for the Blue Jackets, who are already missing center Sean Monahan due to a long-term wrist injury. With both players sidelined, Columbus has lost two key forwards as they fight for a playoff spot in the competitive Eastern Conference.

Kirill Marchenko broke his jaw after being hit by a puck while sitting on the bench Sunday, according to @Aportzline.

Another tough blow for Columbus … pic.twitter.com/Q24xvQYmWb
— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) February 3, 2025

Marchenko has been a standout for both the Blue Jackets and the league this season, setting career highs with 21 goals and 55 points in just 53 games. His strong two-way play has also been notable, with a league-best +31 rating and career-high defensive stats, including a 52.6% CorsiFor and a 92.1% on-ice save percentage.

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While Boone Jenner’s imminent return should help stabilize the lineup, replacing Marchenko’s impact will be a significant challenge. However, both Marchenko and Monahan are expected to recover before the end of the regular season, giving Columbus hope for a strong finish.

Given the team’s current cap space, the Blue Jackets may consider adding a scoring forward before the trade deadline to help fill the gap left by Marchenko’s absence. While they weren’t initially expected to make moves at the deadline, his injury could prompt the team to act.

Image Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Columbus Blue Jackets

Kirill Marchenko

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Anamika Shrivastava

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