In a move aimed at injecting youth and potential into their forward ranks, the Pittsburgh Penguins have acquired right winger Yegor Chinakhov from the Columbus Blue Jackets. The trade, finalized on Monday, December 29, 2025, sees the Penguins sending forward Danton Heinen, a 2026 second-round pick (originally belonging to St. Louis), and a 2027 third-round pick (originally belonging to Washington) to Columbus.

Chinakhov, 24, a former first-round pick (21st overall in 2020), requested a trade from the Blue Jackets during the offseason, citing disagreements with head coach Dean Evason. Despite flashes of potential, Chinakhov has struggled to consistently produce at the NHL level. In 204 career NHL games, all with Columbus, he has recorded 37 goals, 40 assists, and 77 points. This season, he has six points (3 goals, 3 assists) in 29 games.

For the Penguins, this trade represents a calculated risk on a player with undeniable talent. Chinakhov's strengths include a powerful shot and impressive skating ability. He boasts a shot speed in the 96th percentile among his peers and has reached a top skating speed of 22.88 mph. Penguins' President of Hockey Operations and General Manager, Kyle Dubas, is betting that a change of scenery and potential opportunities within the Penguins' top-six forward group, perhaps even alongside stars like Sidney Crosby or Evgeni Malkin, can unlock Chinakhov's offensive potential.

However, there are risks associated with this acquisition. Chinakhov has a history of injuries and has struggled with consistency. He is also in the final year of his contract, carrying an average annual value of $2.1 million, and will be a restricted free agent at the end of the season. This means the Penguins will need to decide whether to extend his contract or risk losing him in free agency.

The Blue Jackets, on the other hand, acquire valuable draft capital and a veteran forward in Danton Heinen. Heinen, who recently cleared waivers, has two points in 13 games this season. While not a star player, Heinen provides depth and experience to the Blue Jackets' roster. The draft picks give Columbus additional assets to use in future trades or to build through the draft.

Grading the Trade:

• Pittsburgh Penguins: B. The Penguins are taking a worthwhile gamble on a player with high-end potential. If Chinakhov can find his game in Pittsburgh, this trade could be a steal. However, his injury history and inconsistency make this a risky move.

• Columbus Blue Jackets: C+. The Blue Jackets addressed Chinakhov's trade request and acquired valuable draft assets. However, they are trading away a player with considerable upside, even if he hadn't reached his full potential in Columbus.

Overall, the trade appears to be a reasonable gamble for both teams. The Penguins get a chance to revitalize a former first-round pick, while the Blue Jackets acquire assets to further their long-term rebuilding process. Only time will tell whether Yegor Chinakhov can flourish in Pittsburgh and justify the Penguins' investment. The Penguins now have a total of 34 draft picks in the next four NHL drafts, including 19 selections in the first three rounds.