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Golden Knights Trade Candidate Report: Yegor Chinakhov

With the Vegas Golden Knights heading to Ohio's capital, here's a dark horse trade candidate they might acquire.

By Jacob Walters |
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Carolina Hurricanes v Columbus Blue Jackets / Jason Mowry/GettyImages
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Yegor Chinakhov hasn't made it a secret that he wants out of Gen Alpha's favorite state, Ohio. The disgruntled Russian winger told the Columbus Dispatch he was unhappy with his role, requesting a trade at the start of the season. However, scoring goals has changed his psyche, with the forward changing course shortly after.

Still, let's look at how the former first-round pick can fit into Bruce Cassidy's system. Yegor Chinakhov can be a good depth piece for a starved Vegas Golden Knights team. So should the Golden Knights bite and take a flyer on the Russian star?

1. Yegor Chinakhov's Scouting Report

Vancouver Canucks v Columbus Blue Jackets
Vancouver Canucks v Columbus Blue Jackets / Jason Mowry/GettyImages

Contrary to reports about Yegor Chinakhov's dissatisfaction in Columbus, the Russian forward actually has plenty of positives to his game. For one, he stays out of the penalty box. In 48 games this season, Chinakhov's only logged six penalty minutes. In a series against the likes of Edmonton, that goes a long way to not getting cooked on special teams.

From a financial standpoint, you don't have to pay the range of $2.5 million for one year for a forward like Frank Vatrano. You're also not getting a rental like Jake Guentzel. Instead, you're getting a sweetheart deal that could cap out at $1.5 million a year as a "prove-it" deal.

As for his game, he's a fast skater, clocking in at a skating speed of 23.24 MPH (98th percentile, according to NHL Edge). His shot's just as quick, punching in at 93.96 MPH (89th percentile, according to NHL Edge). In fact, he has 28 shots at 90 MPH or more.

Imagine having that sort of offensive force on the Vegas Golden Knights. With his ability to pick corners and score from afar, he can pose as a threat to opposing defenses. If he improves his play away from the puck, then he'll become a well-rounded player.

2. Who Else Wants Yegor Chinakhov?

Minnesota Wild v Columbus Blue Jackets
Minnesota Wild v Columbus Blue Jackets / Jason Mowry/GettyImages

Early in the season, Yegor Chinakhov was linked with two teams: the Chicago Blackhawks and the San Jose Sharks. Both were undermanned teams that are sitting at the bottom of their divisions. Therefore, it would've made sense in November or December to trade him.

But let's look at why going to Chicago makes sense. Chinakhov has the ability to develop with Connor Bedard. Playing with a promising young super star can bring out the best in anyone. Plus, it adds much-needed scoring depth to a Blackhawks team that needs it.

3. The Trade Proposal for Yegor Chinakhov

New Jersey Devils v Columbus Blue Jackets
New Jersey Devils v Columbus Blue Jackets / Jason Mowry/GettyImages

It stands with a good reason why he's a lucrative trade target. He's young, coming in at 23 years old. He has a great cheap contract and won't cost the Golden Knights much ($800,000 this season and will be a restricted free agent this offseason). He's contributing at a decent clip, scoring 28 points this season (15 goals, 13 assists).

Vegas Golden Knights and Columbus Blue Jackets

Vegas Golden Knights fans shouldn't look too far into acquiring Yegor Chinakhov. The Columbus Blue Jackets (and Chinakhov) have likely changed course, shelving the trade talks... for now. Therefore, the Golden Knights should pursue other players for more depth.

Still, if the opportunity arises, you know Vegas will be there. The aspects of Chinakhov's current contract look tempting and the Golden Knights are desperate for any type of scoring. But, hey. One can dream, right?

942. NHLPP/ESPN+. March 4, 2024. Vegas Golden Knights vs. Columbus Blue Jackets. 20-30-10. 33-21-7. VGK -175. 4:00 PM PST. 113

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