Blackhawks Should Be First in Line for Yegor Chinakhov After Trade Request
The Chicago Blackhawks need to continue building their young talent pool, and with Yegor Chinakhov potentially available for trade, they should be first in line to make an offer.
It appears Chinakhov has expressed a desire to leave Columbus, even if unofficially at the time of writing. When a young, promising player like this seeks a move, the Blackhawks should capitalize on the opportunity and prepare to step up if the Blue Jackets agree to trade him.
Currently, the Blackhawks’ forward depth is lacking, and while some promising prospects could step up, Chinakhov — a former first-round pick — fits the team’s long-term vision. If the price is right, he could be a valuable addition to their roster.
Chinakhov has shown he has the potential for a top-six role but would likely be best suited for the middle six, averaging between 14:30 and 15:30 of ice time per game. Over the past two seasons, he has totaled 44 points and 23 goals in 83 games, with a solid 12.9 shooting percentage. He’s also contributed four game-winning goals and shown a physical side with 90 body checks.
Chinakhov Could Fill Blackhawks’ Middle-Six Need
Although it seems unlikely the Blackhawks will aggressively pursue a player like Chinakhov, given GM Kyle Davidson’s current strategy of developing the players he already has, the 24-year-old forward still fits the profile of what the team needs: a young player with significant upside who could be a long-term asset.
Additionally, Chinakhov’s experience with the Columbus Blue Jackets — a team that’s been through its own rebuilds and has exceeded expectations — would be invaluable for a Blackhawks squad still learning how to win. Despite his youth, Chinakhov could bring leadership to the locker room and contribute alongside the team’s veterans.
Though it’s not certain the Blue Jackets will immediately move Chinakhov, this is a storyline worth following, especially as the hockey offseason slows down. A trade involving Chinakhov could happen at any time.
Chinakhov Could Challenge Blackhawks’ Prospects
Sometimes, general managers of rebuilding teams hesitate to acquire outside talent because they worry it could block the development of their own prospects. This concern might apply to Chinakhov, but at 24, he wouldn’t be a roadblock to the Blackhawks’ future — in fact, he could push their prospects to outplay him for a spot in the lineup.
If Chicago can strike a good deal, it would be wise for GM Kyle Davidson to pull the trigger on a trade for Chinakhov.
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