Advertisement

Report: Leafs, Oilers, Senators among teams interested in Jakob Chychrun

The Toronto Maple Leafs, Edmonton Oilers and Ottawa Senators are among the teams who have their eye on Arizona Coyotes defenceman Jakob Chychrun as trade interest "intensifies," per TSN's Darren Dreger. The Los Angeles Kings, St. Louis Blues and Columbus Blue Jackets were also listed as potential suitors.

Chychrun's name has been in the rumour mill for what feels like an eternity as the Coyotes continue to rebuild. The 24-year-old added fuel to the fire when he admitted on the opening day of training camp that he took Arizona up on its offer of trying to trade him so he could play for a contending team.

Dreger reports the Coyotes' asking price still includes a first-round pick and a prospect, but believes they have "softened to some degree" in their expected return and are more willing to take on contracts.

A handful of Canadian teams are reportedly interested in Jakob Chychrun, including the Maple Leafs. (Photo by Andrew Lahodynskyj/NHLI via Getty Images)
A handful of Canadian teams are reportedly interested in Jakob Chychrun, including the Maple Leafs. (Photo by Andrew Lahodynskyj/NHLI via Getty Images) (NHLI via Getty Images)

Chychrun's contract carries a $4.6 million cap hit over the next three seasons, so a number of the teams linked to him would have to get creative to clear room for the blueliner. A 10-team no-trade clause kicks in ahead of the 2023-24 campaign, which could narrow the field of trade partners if Arizona waits another year to move him.

The Florida native has played his entire career with the Coyotes since being drafted 16th overall in 2016. He recorded seven goals and 14 assists in 2021-22 before a season-ending ankle injury ended his campaign after just 47 games.

Chychrun hasn't yet appeared in the preseason after undergoing wrist surgery but is feeling strong from a health perspective.

"Things are feeling really good," he told NHL.com's Alan Robinson earlier this month. "I'm in a really good place mentally. Physically, I feel like I'm in phenomenal shape and I'm just ready to keep ramping up."

Arizona opens its season on Oct. 13 with a road contest against the Pittsburgh Penguins.

More from Yahoo Sports