Capitals Should Be In On Yegor Chinakhov With Young Scorer Officially Requesting Trade
The Washington Capitals are exploring options on the trade market, and Yegor Chinakhov could be a name that D.C. goes after.
The Washington Capitals said they’d be looking at the trade market as they evaluate their roster and where they want to add up front, and a new name emerged on the market with Yegor Chinakhov officially requesting a trade from the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Chinakhov was quoted by his agent, Shumi Babayev, as saying he wants to play elsewhere following “misunderstandings” with his coach. Then, Columbus GM Don Waddell confirmed with The Athletic that Chinakhov has requested a change in scenery and that he will explore options.
That being said, Washington could be an ideal landing spot for the 24-year-old.
Chinakhov, a 2020 first-round selection, is known for his high hockey IQ and offensive instincts. He has a lethal shot and good speed, and he works wonders with the puck. Now, it’s about rounding out the rest of his game away from the puck and at the other end of the ice.
The Russian has been plagued by injuries over the course of his career and missed 40 games this past season due to a back injury, and in 30 total games, he had seven goals eight assists for 15 points in 30 games. His best year was in 2023-24, when he put up 16 goals and 13 assists for 29 points in 53 games.
While questions certainly surround Chinakhov when it comes to his health and consistency, he has plenty of upside and a lot left to prove. The Capitals are looking for young talent to fill in some vacancies up front after missing out on Nikolaj Ehlers, and they’re also looking toward the future with Alex Ovechkin entering the twilight of his career. Plus, coach Spencer Carbery has worked wonders with young talent, and he could give Chinakhov the direction he needs.
That said, it’s worth looking into for D.C., who has $4.125 million remaining in cap space going into the season. Chinakhov has one year left on his deal at $2.10 million before he becomes an RFA, so it’d be a low-risk gamble for the Capitals that could very well go their way.