As the NHL offseason approaches its quieter phase in late July and early August, Columbus Blue Jackets forward Yegor Chinakhov has stirred up the trade buzz by expressing a desire to leave the team. At just 24 years old, Chinakhov, who entered the league in the 2021-2022 season, is viewed as a player with untapped potential and could become a significant acquisition target. His performance—71 points, including 34 goals over 175 games—along with strong advanced statistics last season, places him among notable NHL trade prospects this summer.

Chinakhov’s agent revealed that differences with Blue Jackets’ head coach Dean Evason have prompted Chinakhov to seek a fresh start elsewhere. This development has drawn interest from various NHL teams looking to strengthen their rosters with a skilled, NHL-ready forward. Below is an analysis of eight teams rumored to be in the mix for Chinakhov’s services and how he might fit into their lineups.

Buffalo Sabres Eyeing Offensive Reinforcement

Yegor Chinakhov’s career began under Jarmo Kekäläinen, who drafted him in the first round for Columbus back in 2020. Now serving as a senior adviser for the Buffalo Sabres, Kekäläinen’s involvement adds weight to the speculation linking Chinakhov to the Sabres. Buffalo has been actively seeking forward help this summer, especially after trading JJ Peterka to Utah, making Chinakhov a plausible candidate to fill their offensive gaps.

The Sabres require skill and speed from their forwards, qualities that Chinakhov provides. However, a complicating factor is Chinakhov’s troubled relationship with coach Dean Evason, known for a demanding coaching style similar to Buffalo’s Lindy Ruff. Although Chinakhov’s talent could benefit the Sabres, potential friction with Ruff could affect his fit with the team.

Colorado Avalanche’s Depth Could Benefit From Chinakhov

The Colorado Avalanche are contenders with a stacked roster led by Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar, Gabriel Landeskog, and other key players. Still, recent trades, including sending Charlie Coyle and Miles Wood to Columbus for Gavin Brindley and draft picks, altered their forward depth. Brindley is a prospect needing further development, and Danil Gushchin, recently acquired, has limited NHL experience.

Chinakhov’s addition would provide Colorado with an NHL-ready forward capable of contributing immediately without salary cap concerns, as his $2.1 million cap hit fits comfortably. For a team relying on top-line stars, adding experienced depth like Chinakhov could be crucial in navigating the pressures of a deep postseason run against Western Conference rivals.

Boston Bruins Seek Offensive Depth

The Boston Bruins find themselves with a pressing need to rebuild offensive depth if they hope to rise from the bottom of the Atlantic Division. The team has secured Viktor Arvidsson and boasts stars like David Pastrnak, Elias Lindholm, and Morgan Geekie but still lacks scoring depth beyond these players.

Chinakhov would bring an additional layer of skill and scoring ability. While the Bruins have bolstered their bottom six with free agency signings such as Tanner Jeannot and Sean Kuraly, these players contribute more physicality than goal scoring. Chinakhov’s presence would lend a more potent offensive option among the forwards, offering balance and versatility to the lineup.

New Jersey Devils Could Boost Forward Group

The New Jersey Devils stand to benefit significantly from adding a reliable forward like Chinakhov. Fully healthy, Jack Hughes and Luke Hughes give the Devils a strong foundation, complemented by players such as Dougie Hamilton, Nico Hischier, Timo Meier, and Jesper Bratt. Recent acquisitions Connor Brown and Evgenii Dadonov have strengthened their forward corps, yet last season’s injury woes revealed the importance of roster depth.

Incorporating Chinakhov would not only enhance the Devils’ offensive options but also provide insurance against injuries. His skill set aligns well with New Jersey’s style, making him a sensible addition who could help them maintain competitiveness throughout a grueling season.

Pittsburgh Penguins Could Use Youth to Complement Veterans

The Pittsburgh Penguins face uncertain prospects despite the presence of franchise icons Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Kris Letang. The team’s depth up front is a concern, compounded by the possibility of trading veterans such as Bryan Rust, Rickard Rakell, or Erik Karlsson. Chinakhov offers a valuable NHL-ready option that could provide more immediate support than developing prospects like Rutger McGroarty or Ville Koivunen.

While the Penguins’ situation is far from desperate, adding Chinakhov would supply a promising younger presence to complement the aging core, possibly improving the mix of experience and youth as they prepare for the season ahead.

Nashville Predators Looking to Bolster Scoring

The Nashville Predators have experienced a subdued offseason following a disappointing finish, ranking near the bottom for goals scored last year. Their recent moves have focused mainly on defensemen, with the additions of Nicolas Hague and Nick Perbix, while the forward group remains largely unchanged.

Chinakhov represents an opportunity to add much-needed offensive skill. His arrival could help reverse Nashville’s league-low shooting percentage and invigorate their forward lineup, providing fresh energy and goal-scoring ability critical to improving the team’s offensive production.

Vancouver Canucks Eye Balancing Physicality and Scoring

The Vancouver Canucks enter the season with a mostly eclectic forward group that includes Brock Boeser, Conor Garland, and newcomer Evander Kane, alongside star Elias Pettersson. With Thatcher Demko securing the goaltender position and a puck-moving defense core led by Quinn Hughes, the Canucks have a respectable spine but lack consistency in scoring depth.

Chinakhov’s addition would add another scoring dimension to Vancouver’s offense and balance their lineup that mixes physicality with skill. New head coach Adam Foote faces the challenge of shaping a clear team identity, and Chinakhov’s offensive capabilities could be an asset in that process.

New York Islanders Seeking to Rebuild Depth

Despite acquiring the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, the New York Islanders face a critical need for NHL-ready talent following recent trades of Brock Nelson and Noah Dobson. Although replacements like Emil Heineman and Jonathan Drouin have joined the club, the roster remains thin.

Adding Chinakhov would enhance forward depth and lessen reliance on inexperienced players, strengthening their lineup around key players Bo Horvat and Mat Barzal. Improved depth could make a significant difference in the competitive Metropolitan Division, aiding the Islanders’ quest for a playoff position rather than an early exit.

Yegor Chinakhov’s requested move has opened a window for several NHL teams to augment their forward groups this offseason. His youthful promise combined with proven NHL experience makes him an intriguing candidate for teams seeking a difference-maker beyond their current roster. As negotiations and interest continue, how this trade scenario unfolds could have lasting implications for both Chinakhov’s career and the teams poised to capitalize on his potential in 2024 and beyond.

Our Reader’s Queries

Q. How good is Yegor Chinakhov?

A. In 175 games with the Blue Jackets, Chinakhov has scored 71 points. This many points in a smaller role is noteworthy. When in good health, he can contribute effectively. He has an excellent shot, which is his key strength, but he must remain active to utilize it.