Yegor Chinakhov, the Columbus Blue Jackets' right winger, has become a topic of much discussion, particularly regarding his potential departure from the team and the challenges of replacing him on the forward lines. Drafted 21st overall in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft, Chinakhov, now 24, possesses a skillset that makes him a unique asset to the Blue Jackets, despite recent inconsistencies in his performance.
Chinakhov's journey with the Blue Jackets began with promise, showcasing his offensive capabilities and earning a three-year entry-level contract in May 2021. He demonstrated his scoring ability early on, notching 14 points in 62 games during the 2021-22 season. His scoring rate improved at the beginning of the 2022-23 season, tallying 13 points in 30 games before an ankle injury sidelined him. After recovering from the injury, he played seven games with the Cleveland Monsters of the American Hockey League (AHL), contributing eight points.
Despite his undeniable talent, Chinakhov's role with the Blue Jackets has been subject to scrutiny. In recent games, he has been playing primarily on the fourth line, averaging limited ice time. This deployment has led to questions about whether he is being utilized to his full potential, considering his offensive capabilities. Some observers suggest that Chinakhov is better suited for a top-six role where he can showcase his skills more effectively.
Recent reports indicate that Chinakhov may be seeking a trade from the Blue Jackets. Several teams have expressed interest in acquiring him, including the Toronto Maple Leafs, Detroit Red Wings, Florida Panthers, Buffalo Sabres, and Calgary Flames. However, the Blue Jackets are reportedly not interested in simply "dumping" Chinakhov for draft picks; they are seeking a "hockey deal" that would bring in valuable assets to the team. This suggests that the Blue Jackets recognize Chinakhov's potential value and are hesitant to part ways with him unless they receive adequate compensation.
The question then becomes: why is Chinakhov so hard to replace? Several factors contribute to his perceived value. He is known as an extremely talented player, one of the best skaters and shooters in the entire NHL when he's on his game. His offensive abilities, including his shot and puck-handling skills, make him a threat in the offensive zone. Moreover, his contract, which runs through the end of the 2025-26 season with a cap hit of $2.1 million per season, could be seen as valuable for a player with his potential.
However, Chinakhov's consistency has been a concern. After a promising start to last season, his performance declined, with only one assist and a negative plus-minus rating in 11 games after returning from an upper-body injury. This inconsistency has led to questions about his overall impact on the team and whether he can consistently contribute at a high level.
Ultimately, whether the Blue Jackets decide to trade Chinakhov remains to be seen. However, the interest from other teams and the Blue Jackets' reluctance to simply give him away highlight his perceived value. If Chinakhov can regain his scoring touch and demonstrate more consistency, he could become an even more valuable asset, either for the Blue Jackets or for another team.
