The Pittsburgh Penguins have traded for Yegor Chinakhov from the Columbus Blue Jackets, with draft picks as compensation. Chinakhov, 24, a first-round pick (21st overall) in the 2020 NHL Draft, has played 204 NHL games over five seasons, scoring 37 goals and 40 assists. He requested a trade last summer due to fitting issues with Columbus and has expressed interest in remaining in the NHL to continue developing. His recent stats include three goals and three assists in 29 games this season, with a previous high of 16 goals in 53 games two seasons ago. The Penguins aim to bolster their depth forward options, seeing potential in Chinakhov’s finishing ability despite some inconsistencies. He is signed through this season at a cap hit of $2.1 million and will become a restricted free agent in July. The exact draft picks exchanged have not been disclosed, but the move is part of the Penguins’ strategy to strengthen their roster with future assets.