Chinakhov has drawn praise from new Blue Jackets coach Brad Larsen for his play away from the puck and his quick learning curve in training camp, and the 21-year-old could make the NHL roster to begin the season, Aaron Portzline of The Athletic reports.

EDGE Analysis

Taken somewhat surprisingly with the 21st overall pick in the 2020 draft after going undrafted in 2019, Chinakhov spent last season with Gagarin Cup winners Omsk Avangard in the KHL and was named the league's rookie of the year after scoring 10 goals and 17 points in 32 regular-season games, before chipping in five goals and seven points in 21 playoff contests. He has a great set of offensive tools including a wicked wrist shot, and he's shown growth in the rest of his game since being drafted. The rebuilding Jackets still have quality depth at right wing with Jakub Voracek and Oliver Bjorkstrand filling the top two spots on the depth chart, but Chinakhov could be ready to get his feet wet on the third line while seeing occasional power-play duty. If not, he'll begin his career in North America with AHL Cleveland and look to earn his NHL debut later this season.