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Report: Maple Leafs among teams inquiring about Blue Jackets’ Yegor Chinakhov
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Report: Maple Leafs among teams inquiring about Blue Jackets’ Yegor Chinakhov

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The Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly among the teams that have expressed interest in acquiring Columbus Blue Jackets forward Yegor Chinakhov.

TSN’s Pierre LeBrun reported during Thursday edition of Insider Trading that Chinakhov’s name is floating around on the trade market as he has received little playing time to start the season. He has only played in three games at the time of filing, recording one assist and averaging 8:41 minutes per game as he has been deployed on the fourth line.

LeBrun noted that 26 scouts were present at the Blue Jackets’ game against the Colorado Avalanche, a likely indication that interested parties are collecting notes to share with their respective teams on the current state of Chinakhov’s game. The reason why the Leafs are in the mix is ​​due to the fact that they are looking for an upgrade up front. Other teams LeBrun says are interested include the Calgary Flames, the Buffalo Sabres, the Detroit Red Wings and the Florida Panthers. While it’s unclear what exactly it would take to acquire his services, LeBrun reported that Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell would prefer to make a hockey trade given that the team is one injury away from losing the player it no longer needs in the top nine.

Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman later reported in his last 32 thoughts article on Thursday that the Leafs made a trade pitch for Chinakhov during the offseason, which also included Nick Robertson. The Blue Jackets ultimately rejected the offer, but Friedman noted that the file remains open on that front.
Chinakhov sent shockwaves during the 2025 offseason when his agent, Shumi Babaev, posted on X that the player requested a trade due to a lack of communication with Columbus head coach Dean Evason regarding his spot in the lineup. Babaev stated at the time that Chinakhov would honor his contract if nothing happened during the summer, but that he would prefer to continue his career elsewhere so that he had a better chance to play.
It seems like nothing has changed regarding his place in the team, which is why there are now rumors about him at this point in the season. Still, it makes sense why teams like the Leafs would be interested in taking a chance on him, aside from the fact that he was a first-round pick in 2020.

Chinakhov is gifted with a wicked shot, strong attacking instincts and speed to burn. His defensive play, while far from perfect, has also seen improvements since making the move to North America. The only thing teams will be concerned about is his durability, as Chinakhov has never had a fully healthy season thus far in his career, with most games played in 2021-22. He missed a lot of time last season due to a back injury and was frequently fouled even after recovering.

The Leafs fit a team that would make sense as the winner of the Chinakhov sweepstakes for a number of reasons. Head coach Craig Berube is clear in his directions and players know where they stand, which goes a long way in building confidence. The medical staff could help Chinakhov stay healthy for longer, while addressing other underlying conditions he may be suffering from. And given the Leafs’ needs to lead the way, there will be opportunities for him to make an impact offensively.

If the Blue Jackets prefer to make a hockey trade, then Robertson is the logical option for the Leafs to include as a return piece. Multiple insiders, including TSN’s Darren Dreger, have reported that the forward is in trade rumors and is looking for another opportunity due to the lack of a regular role on the team. A hypothetical deal would allow both teams to remove disgruntled players from their rosters and give each a fresh start while adding another element to their respective lineups.

While it’s unclear whether a trade will actually happen, it nonetheless makes sense why Brad Treliving would reportedly reach out to Chinakhov.

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