According to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, the Columbus Blue Jackets and Toronto Maple Leafs reportedly discussed a trade involving Yegor Chinakhov this past offseason.
In a recent edition of 32 Thoughts the blog, Friedman revealed that while Chinakhov was unhappy with his situation in Columbus, the Blue Jackets declined a trade proposal from Toronto.
He wrote:
"Toronto is investigating options for Nick Robertson. At some point in the summer, they pitched a move for Yegor Chinakhov, but that wasn’t to the Blue Jackets’ liking. That file remains open in Columbus"
The reported offer was a one-for-one forward swap between Nicholas Robertson and Chinakhov.
The rumor quickly caught fire in both markets and has been covered by multiple outlets, including one of my pieces at the start of the 2025-26 season.
Still, it appears the Blue Jackets weren’t fans of the proposal and may want more if the Maple Leafs circle back on Chinakhov.
Friedman noted that the situation isn’t closed, suggesting both teams could revisit the idea later. For now, though, it’s clear Columbus values Chinakhov and isn’t looking to move him just for the sake of making a trade.
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