Rick Nash Trade Rumors: New York Rangers Heading Towards a "Nash"-ty Mistake?

According to popular opinion, the Eastern Conference-leading New York Rangers are at the forefront of the impending Rick Nash trade sweepstakes. 

Now, there are many upsides to Rick Nash. He's a player of high caliber that doesn't become available very often. His scoring touch is incredible, and any team would be lucky to have him.

However, trading for Rick Nash would be a costly mistake for this Rangers team.

The going price for the Rangers would most likely include roster players Brandon Dubinsky and Wojtek Wolski, prospects Tim Erixson and Chris Kreider and draft picks. That's an incredible price for one player, even one like Rick Nash.

So, let's take a look: Even though Brandon Dubinsky has had some growing pains this season with scoring troubles and inconsistent play, he is a big part of the heart and soul of this Rangers team. Wolski wouldn't be that big of a loss, but Erixson and Kreider are the future of this franchise. Not to mention, a rookie Kreider would look very nice on Brad Richard's wing.

There are serious ramifications for trading away prospects. It seemed that over the last few years, Glen Sather had learned his lesson about bringing in big names just to light up a marquee on Broadway. The Gomez-Drury debacle finally resolved itself, and the Rangers built this squad from within.

Now, arguably the franchise that has seen the most success with this formula is the Detroit Red Wings. They have continuously been close to the top of the standings and have done it through arduous patience and building their success from growing within.  And while the Rangers were fighting with chemistry and underachieving, the Red Wings were either winning Stanley Cups or fighting to do so.

Now, let's look at this Rick Nash rumor. 

The Rangers have the best team chemistry arguably since 1994. And, not so coincidentally, they have the best record they have had as a franchise since 1994 as well. How does a hired gun like Rick Nash fit into that? He doesn't. Not this team. Not this year. Not in this locker room that has rid itself of self-important egos.

Bringing Nash into this pot of soup would be adding a rock. It could conceivably ruin what could become an incredibly special season as well as possibly ruin subsequently special seasons. Just say no, Glen. Resist the temptation and reap the rewards for years to come.