Jakob Chychrun controls trade despite lacking no-trade protection!

Arizona Coyotes defenseman Jakob Chychrun keeps landing in trade chatter as he would like to be moved, however, it sounds like he may not be helping his own situation…

According to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, Chychrun is really involved in his own trade negotiations, despite lacking no-trade protection in his contract.

The Ottawa Senators, Toronto Maple Leafs, Edmonton Oilers, Los Angeles Kings, St. Louis Blues, and Columbus Blue Jackets were reportedly interested in Chychrun ahead of the season, however, Chychrun has informed his management where he wants to be moved.

“There’s no guarantee it will occur, but I do believe Chychrun let Arizona know he prefers to be dealt to a contender,” reports Friedman in his latest 32 Thoughts column.

I can see a contender inquiring about Chychrun’s services, especially as the trade deadline nears, however, these clubs might get scared off by GM Bill Armstrong’s asking price. Armstrong is rumoured to be asking for two first-round picks plus either a prospect or a young NHL player in a monster trade for Chychrun.

Jeff Marek recently reported that the Buffalo Sabres are now the new favourite to acquire Chychrun, calling them the “dark horse” in acquiring the 24-year-old.

However, it Chychrun has spoken with management, and they agree to send him to a contender, Buffalo might not fit his requirements…

Chychrun keeps looking good in his first five games, collecting three points with a plus-minus of plus-two.