October 26, 2025
The Yegor Chinakhov Conundrum: A Top-9 Talent on the 4th-Line Fringes for the Blue Jackets
In the economy of the NHL, few assets are more volatile—or more tantalizing—than a young, cost-controlled former first-round pick who has already demonstrated scoring touch but finds himself squarely in the coach’s doghouse. Enter Yegor Chinakhov. The 24-year-old Columbus Blue Jackets winger is currently the subject of intense trade speculation across the league, representing a fascinating case study in asset management, coaching philosophy, and the difference between a player’s potential and his deployment. Despite a 16-goal performance last season, Chinakhov is on the outside looking in, and rival general managers are circling. But as teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs
