The Columbus Blue Jackets kicked off their 25th anniversary season with optimism, but the decision to scratch Yegor Chinakhov on opening night is a storyline that won’t fade quietly. For a player who requested a trade in July, citing a lack of opportunity under Dean Evason, this move feels like a continuation of the tension rather than a resolution.
Chinakhov’s camp tried to reset the narrative during training camp. He met with Evason, changed agents, and reportedly expressed openness to staying in Columbus. But actions speak louder than words, and tonight’s lineup sends a clear message: the Jackets have depth, and Chinakhov isn’t in the top 12—for now.
Why Chinakhov’s Healthy Scratch Signals Bigger Issues in Columbus
From a hockey perspective, this isn’t shocking. Columbus boasts a strong forward core with Sean Monahan, Adam Fantilli, and Boone Jenner anchoring the middle. Add rising stars like Kent Johnson and Kirill Marchenko, and the squeeze is real. Chinakhov, despite his offensive upside, hasn’t cemented himself as a must-play option. His 16-goal season in 2023-24 showed promise, but injuries and inconsistency have kept him from breaking through.
The bigger question: does this scratch reignite trade chatter? Edmonton was once rumored as a fit, but Jack Roslovic’s signing closes that door. Montreal, Chicago, and even New Jersey could circle back if Columbus decides to move him. For now, GM Don Waddell holds leverage—Chinakhov is under team control through 2026 as an RFA.
My take? This is a classic NHL standoff. Columbus wants performance before opportunity; Chinakhov wants opportunity to prove performance. If he gets back in the lineup and produces, the drama cools. If not, buckle up for a mid-season trade saga.
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The post Yegor Chinakhov Scratched Again—What’s Really Going On in Columbus? appeared first on NHL Trade Rumors.
