The simple answer is yes, why not?
Chinakhov’s agent, Shumi Babaev, announced on Twitter/X Thursday that his client has requested a trade and has no intention of returning to Russia, stating, ‘As long as I can play in the NHL.
Chinakhov is a former first round pick – 21st overall – in 2020. Interestingly, it’s the same spot Fabian Lysell was selected one year later.
Chinakhov has played in 175 NHL games, tallying 34 goals and 37 assists. His breakout came during the 2023–24 season, when he posted career highs with 16 goals and 13 assists over 53 games. However, last season saw a dip in production—just 7 goals and 8 assists in 30 games—and that’s when tensions began to surface.
The left-shooting right winger, standing 6’1″ and weighing 201 pounds, was enjoying a strong season. Averaging nearly 16 minutes of ice time per game, he recorded 47 hits, 10 blocked shots, and an impressive 140 shot attempts—48.6% of which hit the target. He ranked third among Blue Jackets forwards in power-play usage, logging 1:59 per game. Over his first 21 games of the season, he notched 7 goals and 7 assists.
On November 27, he played his final game before missing the next 39 contests due to a lingering back injury. The issue actually dates back to the 2023–24 season, when he was sidelined for the final 17 games. Despite reporting to camp, he battled persistent back pain through the early part of the season. During the offseason, he consulted with as many as six doctors in search of a solution, ultimately opting against surgery.
When Chinakhov returned to the lineup on March 4, the Blue Jackets were still clinging to playoff hopes. However, his impact was minimal. In the eight games following his return, the team posted a disappointing 1-6-1 record, and their postseason chances quickly faded. Chinakhov was subsequently made a healthy scratch, appearing in just one additional game the rest of the way.
I completely understand that the Blue Jackets had to prioritize the team and make decisions in the club’s best interest. While it’s not about making excuses for Chinakhov, it’s worth noting that eight games simply weren’t enough for him to regain game shape, restore his timing, or rebuild his confidence after missing half the season. If I were the head coach, I likely would’ve made the same call. That said, any team considering acquiring Chinakhov should have one primary concern: the status of his back.
Chinakhov carries a cap hit of $2.1 million for the upcoming season. He will be a restricted free agent with arbitration rights next July. According to our friends at Benchrates, Chinakhov has played above his contract. (Click the Benchrates logo below for player cards).
Chinakhov possesses a lethal shot—both his wrist and snap shots are released quickly and with pinpoint accuracy. He’s demonstrated the ability to beat NHL goaltenders from range using either. His playmaking is relatively average, as he occasionally struggles with passing precision—a surprising contrast given the accuracy of his shot. If there’s one area of concern in his game, it’s his skating. While he’s effective at gaining the offensive zone, he lacks top-end speed, and his technique limits his edgework, which can be considered average.
Another potential concern is Chinakhov’s defensive play. He’s committed to blocking shots and shows a solid understanding of positional responsibilities in his own zone. However, his limited speed can hinder his ability to consistently execute, and at times, a lack of effort has also been noticeable.
While those concerns exist, they’re certainly fixable—provided Chinakhov is willing to put in the work and the team exercises some patience. Unlike the Bruins’ recent additions like Matej Blumel and Alex Steeves, who were brought in as potential offensive wildcards, Chinakhov has already demonstrated he can produce at the NHL level.
It’s worth a call to Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell to gauge what Columbus might be looking for.
Dom - Hockey 
What would they have to give up to get him? Lysell and?
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