Latest report confirms Avalanche could still be eyeing star winger from Blue Jackets in huge blockbuster trade
Photo credit: Adam Cairns / Columbus Dispatch
The Colorado Avalanche may still be targeting star winger Yegor Chinakhov from the Columbus Blue Jackets, with a blockbuster trade potentially in the works that could significantly shake up the their roster.
Chinakhov's name has already been linked to the Avalanche in trade rumours.
Avalanche could still be eyeing star winger Yegor Chinakhov from Blue Jackets.
Stefano Rubino from The Hockey News writes that Columbus GM Don Waddell told Aaron Portzline he wasn't surprised by Chinakhov's recent trade request, noting the young winger didn't respond well to being a healthy scratch after struggling post-back injury.
While injuries have hampered Chinakhov's early NHL career, he still possesses several promising traits that could benefit the Avalanche, especially as an "overager" prospect who has yet to fully realize his potential.
"If the Avalanche did acquire him, he could be that next key piece in the coming seasons, being the next man up in the top-six as current players slowly fill out a middle/bottom-six role. Getting young, fresh legs up in the top-six to lead the offense while taking pressure off the aging veterans." -Rubino
With a $2.1 million cap hit and arbitration eligible next summer, Chinakhov's trade value is somewhat of a wildcard. The Blue Jackets could be seeking a package that includes prospects, draft picks, or even depth NHL players to balance their roster.
Depending on the ask, the Avalanche might be in a position to meet the price, especially if they believe Chinakhov can thrive in their system and add value both now and in the long term.
"At the end of the day, if the Avalanche do end up making a deal, it all comes down to what the cost looks like. He might or might not be a success story at the end of the day, just another trade that just didn't pan out well for the team. Although he could also be a key piece that helps push the team into a better position, maybe not now, but down the road." - Rubino
Chinakhov could represent a key young piece capable of taking a bigger step each season, potentially helping to pivot the franchise's direction as the Avalanche's veteran core gradually ages and begins to take a step back.
| POLL | ||
JUILLET 22 | 30 ANSWERS Latest report confirms Avalanche could still be eyeing star winger from Blue Jackets in huge blockbuster trade Should the Avalanche trade for star winger Yegor Chinakhov? | ||
| yes | 21 | 70 % |
| no | 9 | 30 % |
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