Star Russian winger demands trade to two unexpected teams: The Columbus Blue Jackets must act fast

The 24-year-old forward, Yegor Chinakhov, was a highly touted prospect of the Columbus Blue Jackets (21st overall in 2020).

Though no one knew who he was at the draft, he has the tools to become a successful forward in the NHL.

In 2023 and 2024, he'd suffer through multiple injuries during his time in Columbus, which would set him back. He missed 50 total games due to back issues and an upper-body injury.

New Coach Dean Evanson would demote Chinakhov during his return to the ice last season, which would trigger a backlash from him. The Russian forward would submit a trade request in July to General Manager Don Waddell, and it's been reported today that the Blackhawks are a desired landing spot for him.

Chinakhov has a cap hit of $2.1 million AAV (average annual value) and will be a pending restricted free agent at the end of this season.

If Kyle Davidson were to acquire him in trade, the Blackhawks may have to trade a prospect, or, according to Union and Blue, it will be a full-blown hockey trade.

He would join other former Blue Jackets like Seth Jones, Nick Foligno, and Max Domi, who have found the Windy City to be a wonderful home.

But Chinakhov's full potential could be unlocked by Connor Bedard.

He's shown inconsistency in his game in Columbus, though a rebuild like Chicago's could be what he needs to become the top-six forward he was supposed to be in Columbus.

He's capable of playing on the power play and would be an option to replace Andre Burakovsky on the top line. In 30 games played last season, he scored 7-8-15 points with the Blue Jackets.