This Blue Jackets trade request might be the perfect gift for the Dallas Stars

The Columbus Blue Jackets ended the 2024-25 season on a strong note, nearly catching the final playoff spot, but now an unexpected development has shaken their offseason plans.

According to multiple reports, 24-year-old forward Yegor Chinakhov has formally asked general manager Don Waddell for a trade.

His agent, Shumi Babaev, told The Athletic that the request stems from a conflict with head coach Dean Evason, not with the team or the city itself.

"Chinakhov is comfortable with the team and with the city. But he is not comfortable with this coach. It's all because of the coach." Babaev said.

Why the Dallas Stars could be an ideal landing spot for Yegor Chinakhov

Babaev also revealed that communication between his client and Evason was strained all season.

When Chinakhov returned from a long injury, he was scratched for most of the final month.

Despite this, he still managed 7 goals and 15 points in 30 games.

A change of scenery might unlock his full potential.

That's where the Dallas Stars could come into play.

With their contending roster and need to keep adding young offensive depth, a versatile forward like Chinakhov could be an attractive target.

His connection with fellow Russian Ivan Demidov only adds intrigue - pairing the two could bring chemistry and secondary scoring in Dallas.

However, Waddell has made it clear he won't trade Chinakhov just to accommodate his wishes.

Any deal would need to make sense for Columbus, meaning the Stars would likely have to offer a mid-tier prospect or a future draft pick.

Personally, I think this type of low-risk, high-upside move is exactly how a contender like Dallas should keep its competitive window open.

With the right opportunity, Chinakhov could provide the kind of depth scoring that makes a difference in the playoffs.