Is Yegor Chinakhov worth the gamble for the Avalanche? Latest report raises serious concern
Photo credit: Keith Gillett / IconSportswire
The Colorado Avalanche are reportedly still eyeing Columbus Blue Jackets star winger Yegor Chinakhov as part of a possible blockbuster trade between the two franchises, which begs the question: is Chinakhov a risk worth taking for Colorado?
Chinakhov's name has already surfaced in multiple trade rumours involving the Avalanche.
New report urges Avalanche to pursue Yegor Chinakhov.
Ryan O'Hara from Mile High Hockey writes that initially, acquiring Chinakhov might be a misstep for the Avalanche, but after taking a closer look, the 23-year-old Russian winger clearly warrants a more thorough assessment.
Chinakhov boasts a remarkable blend of skill and speed, yet his durability remains a significant concern.
"Chinakhov, who has recently requested a trade from the Columbus Blue Jackets, embodies a familiar archetype within the NHL landscape: a highly skilled player seeking a fresh start in a new environment." -O'Hara
Chosen 20th overall in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft, Chinakhov has missed close to 100 games in his professional career so far because of various injuries affecting both his upper and lower body.
"Although this figure might appear modest at first glance, it nevertheless represents a substantial fraction of the playing opportunities, underscoring the tangible impact of his recurring health issues on his availability." -O'Hara
Keaton Middleton might be an appealing choice for the Blue Jackets, bringing valuable physicality and toughness to their defense. Alternatively, the Avalanche could explore trading one of their other prospects along with a draft pick to help make the deal happen.
"That said, given Colorado's recent pattern of sacrificing future selections to remain competitive in the present, surrendering yet another pick may prove a precarious gamble. Ultimately, much will hinge on what Chris MacFarland has in store as the new season approaches." -O'Hara
If the Avalanche truly want to bring Chinakhov on board, making the trade sooner rather than later would be beneficial, giving him ample time to adjust and develop chemistry with his new teammates.
"It's worth recalling that the 2022 championship roster was not assembled through short-term rentals or opportunistic acquisitions-it was forged through sustained chemistry, shared purpose, and a sense of brotherhood. To recapture that dynamic, the current group must be given the runway to grow together, cultivate trust, and coalesce into something greater than the sum of its parts." -O'Hara
We'll see what further develops over the course of the offseason.
| POLL | ||
JUILLET 23 | 18 ANSWERS Is Yegor Chinakhov worth the gamble for the Avalanche? Latest report raises serious concern Do you think the Avalanche should still trade for Yegor Chinahkov? | ||
| yes | 10 | 55.6 % |
| no | 8 | 44.4 % |
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