Columbus, OH – The Columbus Blue Jackets are finalizing a trade to send forward Yegor Chinakhov to the Pittsburgh Penguins. The move comes after months of speculation surrounding the 24-year-old, who reportedly requested a trade earlier in the season. TSN Hockey Insider Pierre LeBrun was among the first to report the impending deal.

Chinakhov's departure marks the end of a somewhat turbulent chapter in Columbus. Drafted by the Blue Jackets, the Russian winger showed flashes of potential but struggled to find consistent footing within the organization. After a final attempt to integrate him into the lineup at the beginning of the 2025-2026 season, the Blue Jackets decided to move forward.

In return for Chinakhov, the Blue Jackets will receive draft picks from the Penguins. While the specific number and round of the picks have not been officially disclosed by the teams, The Athletic's Aaron Portzline reported that Columbus would receive a pair of unspecified draft picks.

For the Blue Jackets, this trade signifies a continued reshaping of their forward group. The team has brought in veterans like Charlie Coyle and Mason Marchment to bolster their scoring depth and provide leadership. With these additions, Chinakhov's role in Columbus diminished, making him a likely candidate to be moved. The acquisition of draft picks provides the Blue Jackets with valuable assets that can be used in future trades or to develop young talent through the draft.

The Pittsburgh Penguins, under the guidance of Kyle Dubas, are taking a calculated risk on Chinakhov. Dubas's strategy involves acquiring younger talent and accumulating draft picks to ensure a successful transition beyond the Sidney Crosby era. Chinakhov fits this profile as a player with untapped potential who could benefit from a change of scenery. The Penguins can offer Chinakhov a fresh start and the opportunity to play significant minutes, potentially even alongside Crosby. This exposure could be instrumental in elevating Chinakhov's game and unlocking his full potential.

The trade provides both teams with an opportunity to address their respective needs. Columbus gains assets for the future, while Pittsburgh gets a chance to revitalize a young player's career. As the Blue Jackets continue to build for the future, the Penguins are hoping that Chinakhov can become a valuable contributor as they navigate a transition period.