Chinakhov requests trade from the Blue Jackets: The Russian seeks a new path in the NHL

Yegor Chinakhov Requests a Trade from the Blue Jackets

Columbus Blue Jackets right winger Yegor Chinakhov, selected 21st overall in the 2020 NHL draft, has requested a trade. Shumi Babaev, Chinakhov’s agent, posted a statement from his client about his intentions on X on Thursday.

I had some misunderstandings with the coach during the season. Now I would like to be traded. I would like to move somewhere else. Will I return to Russia? As long as I can play in the NHL, I will continue to develop here.

Yegor Chinakhov

Dean Evason was in his first season as coach of the Blue Jackets last season. Columbus had a record of 40-33-9 and finished two points out of a wild card spot. Babaev also published that he has spoken with the Blue Jackets’ management about Chinakhov’s request. Babaev added: “I understand that Yegor’s desire to be traded did not come out of nowhere.” The Russian forward has been affected by injuries in his four seasons in the NHL, including missing 40 games last season due to a back injury. He had seven goals and 15 points in 30 games. A Chinakhov has one season left on his contract. His best season was 2023-24, when he scored 16 goals and 29 points in 53 games.