NHL Rumors: Blue Jackets Star Rick Nash May Be Headed to the Rangers

The New York Rangers hardly need a boost to their roster, but they will take it. Especially if it means welcoming a player like Rick Nash to the team. 

The Columbus Blue Jackets currently sit underneath every last team in the Western Conference with 38 points. 

The time for them to rebuild is now, and I don't fault them for putting pretty much every player on the trade block if that is what it takes. 

I find it hard to believe that the face of the franchise could soon be on the outs, and the Rangers are the team that may ultimately reap the rewards. 

ESPN New York's Katie Strang reports that the New York Rangers are interested in the star Blue Jackets captain. She writes: 

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The cornerstone of Columbus’ franchise, Nash was long considered untouchable although it looks like the team may now be willing to part ways with its 27-year-old captain. 

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She went on to say that Nash would be willing to waive his no-movement clause to play in New York. That comes as little surprise, as Nash would be playing for one of the more storied franchises in the NHL, and one that sits atop the Eastern Conference with 77 points. 

The Stanley Cup contenders would further solidify their claim on the title this year by adding Nash. The rumor may have legs as Strang continues: 

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Blue Jackets GM Scott Howson has declined to comment on the rumors, but was in attendance to watch the Rangers’ 5-2 win over the Flyers in Philadelphia on Saturday.

Blue Jackets scouts have also been on hand to watch the Rangers as recently as this Sunday against the Capitals. 

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Columbus may be eyeing the youth they could pick off in what would be a sad day for Blue Jackets fans. 

It's one thing to continue to spiral the drain in the conference, but losing the captain and face of the franchise is another thing entirely. 

The only thing that would assuage the pain would be getting a flood of promising talent in return. We see yet again that rebuilding is a messy business indeed.

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