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New York Rangers Eye Columbus Blue Jackets’ Yegor Chinakhov as Potential Trade Target

NEW YORK – With the NHL’s holiday trade freeze lifted, the New York Rangers are reportedly considering a move for Columbus Blue Jackets forward Yegor Chinakhov. According to sources, Rangers General Manager Chris Drury is exploring options to inject speed and a powerful shot into the team’s offense, and the 24-year-old Chinakhov fits the bill.

While Chinakhov’s overall NHL statistics – 37 goals and 40 assists in 204 games – might not immediately jump off the page, his underlying skills are attracting attention. Despite limited ice time (averaging just over 10 minutes a game this season), Chinakhov ranks in the 99th percentile for hardest shot in the league, clocking in at a blistering 99.03 MPH. He also showcases above-average speed, placing in the 91st percentile.

The Rangers, who struggle with shot volume and are considered a slower team overall, could benefit from Chinakhov’s ability to generate offense off the rush and unleash a powerful shot from the perimeter. The team currently ranks low in shots exceeding 90 MPH, an area where Chinakhov excels.

“He would represent something different,” one analyst noted. “The team as constructed is pretty slow and isn’t generating significant shot volume. Chinakhov’s speed would allow the Rangers to improve their transition game.”

Chinakhov, who turns 25 in February, is currently in the second year of a $2.1 million per season contract, making him a cost-controlled asset for the next few seasons. While the Rangers may ultimately seek a more established star, acquiring Chinakhov represents a low-risk, high-reward opportunity to bolster their roster with a player possessing unique and desirable attributes. A change of scenery could unlock Chinakhov’s potential, similar to past acquisitions like Frank Vatrano and Jack Roslovic. The Rangers hope Chinakhov can develop into a solid offensive contributor, injecting life into their forward lines.

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