NHL Trade Rumors: Blue Jackets Will Never Get Full Value for Rick Nash

The bridges have likely been burned beyond repair, and ultimately, Rick Nash will be traded. Elliote Friedman of CBC Sports said this in an article discussing Nash’ situation:

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“I took a small poll of GMs and execs, asking if there is any chance Nash and the Blue Jackets could patch things up in true Valentine's Day spirit. One brought up Steve Yzerman and Detroit, which is a great argument. But others pointed out that Yzerman never wanted to leave, while Nash clearly is ready to go.”

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If that is the case, it’s sad for several reasons. 

Nash has been with the team since he was 18 years old. He lead the NHL in goals in 2003-2004 as a 19-year-old. He has been the team’s best player, and arguably, a top 10 player in the NHL over the past seven years.

What he means to hockey fans in Columbus will be difficult to replicate with any package of players. He is the face of a franchise that hasn’t distinguished themselves much.

Nash is the only star the city has ever known, but the team has only been to one postseason in their 12-year existence. Therein lies the problem.  

From a less sentimental standpoint, the asking price for Nash is understandable but substantial. Aside from Nash’s $7.8 million dollar salary hit, the Blue Jackets are also seeking a package that includes high draft picks and current players, per Friedman.

Nash’s contract runs through 2018, so teams will be wary, even for a guy who has been such a consistent performer. He has averaged 58.5 points per season in his career.

Ultimately, the Blue Jackets will have to settle for a package that doesn’t restore what Nash brings to the team and the franchise. 

The team isn’t winning, and I can’t blame the Blue Jackets for trying to take advantage of their best asset. I also can’t blame Nash for wanting to go to a winner.

Still, he is the biggest part of what little identity the team has.

Ultimately, that will be gone.