Penguins Division Rival Reportedly Shut Down Trade Talks With Toronto Involving Former First-Round Pick
Photo credit: Daily Faceoff
Tonight, reports have indicated that the Columbus Blue Jackets recently declined a trade involving disgruntled forward Yegor Chinakhov.
During training camp, reports came out that former Columbus Blue Jackets first-round pick had requested a trade after not being happy with his playing time.
Chinakhov, 24, was a first rounder in 2020 and made his NHL debut shortly after in 2021 becoming a reliable bottom-six forward.
However, since his debut Chinakhov has struggled to take steps towards becoming an impactful top of the lineup player.
He believes it is due to lack of opportunity which caused him to request the trade.
Now, reports have confirmed that the Toronto Maple Leafs recently were deep in trade talks with the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Blue Jackets Turn Down Maple Leafs Trade Offer For Yegor Chinakhov
During a recent iteration of the 32 Thoughts Podcast, Elliotte Friedman
In a recent edition of 32 Thoughts the blog, Friedman revealed that while Chinakhov was unhappy with his situation in Columbus, the Blue Jackets declined a trade proposal from Toronto.
While this report from Friedman does confirm trade talks took place the exact offer made and how far talks actually got is unknown.
If Chinakhov remains on the trade block deep into the season he could potentially become a target for the Penguins if they are still in a playoff spot.
He bring reliable play at both ends of the ice and could provide much needed depth scoring on the third line alongside Ben Kindel.
In addition, at 24 years old the Penguins could develop him as the season goes along into an eventual key part of their future top-six.
As the season continues on, it will be interesting to continue following Chinakhov's trade saga and where he might end up next season.
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