Chicago Blackhawks Explore Trade for Blue Jackets Forward Yegor Chinakhov

The Chicago Blackhawks are preparing for the 2024-25 NHL season with a focus on integrating young talent and potentially adding impactful players to their roster. Prospect Colton Dach, who split time between the AHL and NHL last season, is seen by new coach Jeff Blashill as a possible top-six forward in the future. Another young player, Aidan Thompson, is working to improve his skating and shooting to transition successfully to the pro level. Meanwhile, the Blackhawks are reportedly in talks to acquire Yegor Chinakhov from the Columbus Blue Jackets, a 24-year-old forward who could fit into Chicago's middle-six forward group and possibly play alongside star Connor Bedard. Chinakhov, who has struggled to secure a permanent NHL spot in Columbus due to injuries and competition, has a year left on his contract and would be a feasible addition under Chicago's salary cap. The Blackhawks' management acknowledges that not all prospects will fit into the team's future, suggesting some players may be traded to make room for new acquisitions as the team rebuilds.