Yegor Chinakhov wanted out of Columbus before the Blue Jackets even started shopping him. While the franchise dangled the Russian winger in trade talks for Noah Dobson, Chinakhov was already planning his exit from Ohio. Now his agent is making it crystal clear: This isn’t about the city or the team. It’s about the coach.
Why Is Dean Evason’s Relationship With Yegor Chinakhov Beyond Repair?
Since June, Yegor Chinakhov has been the prime trade candidate for the Blue Jackets as they tried to acquire the New York Islanders’ Noah Dobson. But while the trade didn’t happen after the Islanders chose to work with the Montreal Canadiens instead, Chinakhov had already made up his mind to leave Columbus.
The rumors became reality when Chinakhov requested the franchise to prepare for his trade. On July 18, the franchise made the situation official. According to his agent, Shumi Babaev, the relationship is broken beyond repair.
“I don’t think there’s any way he can stay in Columbus,” Babaev said bluntly. “I don’t see any way.”
The issue isn’t with the organization or the city. Babaev claims the problem lies squarely with head coach Dean Evason, who never bothered to communicate with his player. From Chinakhov’s injury in early November through the final month of the regular season, the two never had a conversation.
“(Chinakhov) is comfortable with this team. He’s comfortable with this city,” Babaev explained. “But he’s not comfortable with this coach. It’s all about the coach.”
That lack of communication cost Chinakhov significant playing time, limiting him to just 30 games in the 2024-25 season.
How Did Evason’s Lineup Decisions Alienate Chinakhov?
The frustration goes beyond mere ice time. Babaev points to a specific sequence that epitomizes the communication breakdown between player and coach.
“If you remember, (Chinakhov) started the season on the first line, and he was fantastic. And then he’s on the third line, and that’s it,” Babaev said. The demotion of the fast-moving winger came without explanation.
“Third line. The coach doesn’t tell him anything. Why? Why would you do this?” Babaev questioned Evason’s decision-making process. “It should be something that should be (explained) about why he did this.”
Babaev made it clear he isn’t questioning Evason’s coaching abilities or methods in general. The issue is purely about the relationship with his client.
“I’m not saying how a coach should work. (I’m) just saying that for my player, it’s not comfortable with the coach, and (he feels like) the coach doesn’t trust him,” Babaev explained.
When asked about the possibility of mending the relationship, Babaev remained pessimistic. “During the season, he didn’t tell him anything,” he said. “I don’t think so. Some coaches like players; some coaches like other players.”
The situation ultimately led to GM Don Waddell planning to honor Chinakhov’s trade request. While it remains unclear which team the Russian will join, any destination that offers more playing time would represent a fresh start for the frustrated winger.
