Suprising Update on Yegor Chinakhov & His Trade Request

Yegor Chinakhov, Columbus Blue Jackets forward

It was back on July 17th when Columbus Blue Jackets forward Yegor Chinakhov voiced his displeasure (refered to as 'misunderstandings') with head coach Dean Evason, and asked for a trade. Just earlier this week, a report out of Columbus insisted that the trade request had not been rescinded.

Since then, however, the Russian forward was able to have a heart-to-heart sit-down with his head coach to clear the air. It appears that he's now willing to stay with the team.

Yegor Chinakhov just spoke to us after practice. He says that he’s open to staying with #CBJ. Reiterated he loves the city and the fans. Also said he and Dean Evason “understand each other” after talking recently.
— Mark Scheig (@mark_scheig) September 18, 2025

Chinakhov told reporters that he loves the city and the fans, and said he and Evason “understand each other."

In particular, we assume, the player now "understands" why he was a healthy scratch in 12 of the final 13 games of the season, and what's expected of him.

Chinakhov had some 'misunderstandings' with Evason, but now is open to staying in Columbus

Back in July, through his agent, Chinakhov said, “I had some misunderstandings with the coach during the season. Now I would be glad to have a trade. I would like to move to a different location."

It never got to an acrimonious situation, however, and GM Don Waddell said last week that a clearing of the air with the player would be needed if he were to be able to stay with the Blue Jackets. That has obviously now taken place.

Chinakhov, 24, is a former first-round pick (21st overall, 2020 NHL Draft), who has disappointed in his time in Columbus, finishing last season with just seven goals and 15 points in 30 games. His one acceptable season showing some promise came in 2023-24, when he recorded 16 goals and 29 points in 53 games.

He'll likely be given another shot at second-line duty, with a chance to show that he can be a legit middle-six option for the Blue Jackets.