Disgruntled Blue Jackets Forward's Decision Sparks Maple Leafs Trade Talk

Babaev explained that the lack of communication and unexplained demotion in the lineup soured Chinakhov’s season. After starting strong on the top line, Chinakhov was dropped to the third unit without a clear reason.

“The coach doesn’t tell him anything,” Babaev said. “Why would you do this?”

Chinakhov is coming off two strong seasons, posting 29 points in 53 games in 2023–24 and following up with 15 points in 30 games last year despite a coaching shift and reduced role. On a per-60-minute basis, the Russian has posted 2, 2.2 and 1.9 PTS/60 in the past three seasons.

Given the situation, the Maple Leafs are being floated as a potential landing spot for the disgruntled winger if a trade materializes.

Maple Leafs analyst Ryan Ma studied a potential "franchise-altering" trade for Chinakhov in a piece for 6IX ON ICE. Meanwhile, fellow Leafs analyst Gordon Munro also discussed a potential trade at Editor In Leaf.

“A Chinakov [sic] trade would mean far more than just bringing a talented, young, cost-controlled offensive winger to Toronto,” Ma wrote. “It could point to a front office finally ready to enter the new age of player assessment and once again assert itself as one of the trailblazers and innovators of the modern NHL.”

“Depending on the price, the Leafs should be interested in acquiring Chinakhov,” Munro wrote. “If given the chance to play with stars like Auston Matthews, Matthew Knies, William Nylander, and John Tavares, he could really thrive.”