Egor Chinakhov went on an absolute tear for the Pittsburgh Penguins last season, racking up 18 goals and 36 points in just 43 regular-season games after a mid-season trade. This dude was practically a different player once he hit Pittsburgh ice, and it is setting him up for a monster 2026-27.
The Columbus Trade That Changed Everything For Chinakhov
Seriously, what even happened in Columbus? Chinakhov started the 2025-26 campaign with the Blue Jackets looking pretty rough, putting up a paltry three goals and six points across 29 outings. The Blue Jackets obviously saw enough, deciding to cut ties and trade him to Pittsburgh. And boy, did that move pay off immediately for the Penguins. His productivity exploded, a huge part of which was the opportunity to play alongside absolute legends like Sidney Crosby or Evgeni Malkin. Can you imagine getting that kind of ice time? It is a game changer. For 2026-27, he should absolutely remain in Pittsburgh’s top six, making a 50-point season totally feasible and even pushing 60 points a very real possibility. That is a breakout you do not want to miss.
Zach Benson’s Huge Bet From Buffalo
Over in Buffalo, Zach Benson is another young gun ready to light it up. Drafted No. 13 overall back in 2023, Benson has steadily climbed, already tallying 34 goals and 101 points through 211 career regular-season appearances. But 2025-26 was different; he trended way up, finishing with 43 points. The Sabres saw enough to make a serious commitment, locking him into a massive seven-year, $52.5 million contract extension this past summer. That is a lot of cash, showing just how much faith they have in his future. There is a strong chance Benson could land on Buffalo’s top line this season. Regardless of how the Sabres shuffle their top six, he is absolutely primed for a significant step forward and is going to prove that contract was a steal.
Keep your eyes peeled, hockey fans. These are the guys who could define your fantasy season or just make watching some wild hockey even better. Chinakhov and Benson are ready to prove they are the real deal, and we are here for every second of it.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by CBS Sports.
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