The Pittsburgh Penguins have made a strategic move by acquiring forward Yegor Chinakhov from the Columbus Blue Jackets in exchange for undisclosed draft picks. The trade, confirmed by NHL insiders including Elliotte Friedman and Pierre Lebrun, highlights Pittsburgh’s ongoing efforts to secure young talent while maintaining a strong future draft presence under General Manager Kyle Dubas.
Chinakhov, a 24-year-old winger, was a first-round pick (21st overall) in the 2020 NHL Draft but has faced challenges during his tenure in Columbus. Despite showcasing flashes of potential, including a strong shot and quick speed, he struggled to find a consistent role in the Blue Jackets’ lineup, averaging just over 10 minutes of ice time per game this season. His performance, particularly in the 2023-24 season, was marred by difficulty in translating raw skills into effective play, leading him to request a trade.
This fresh start in Pittsburgh may provide Chinakhov the necessary environment to unlock his full potential. Known for his scoring ability and overall offensive talent, he could prove to be a valuable asset for the Penguins, particularly as they continue their pursuit of success in the Metropolitan Division. His current contract carries a cap hit of $2.1 million and he will be a restricted free agent after this season, depending on whether he receives a qualifying offer.
The deal reflects Pittsburgh’s focus on injecting new energy into their roster, particularly in their forward depth. With Chinakhov’s track record in the advanced stats community indicating promising qualities, many believe that a change of scenery may allow him to flourish and potentially bolster the Penguins’ offensive capabilities moving forward.