Rick Nash Trade Rumors: Comments from Nash's Agent Prove Deal Must Be Made

The Columbus Blue Jackets have made captain Rick Nash available for trade this season, and they would be very wise to move the star winger. Otherwise, the last few months could be quite uncomfortable for him and the team.

If Nash isn't dealt by Monday afternoon's trade deadline, then it won't be an exciting last few months of the season, as everyone knows it's incredibly unlikely he'll remain with the team for next year.

On Saturday, Nash's agent, Joe Resnick, spoke to TSN's Bob McKenzie about his client, saying that even if he's not dealt before the deadline, Nash's list of teams he would approve a trade to will not change.

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“We’re hopeful a deal can get done prior to the trade deadline that is fair and equitable for the Blue Jackets...

— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) February 25, 2012"

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However, if a deal is not reached, then the list of acceptable teams will not change at a later date.” #TradeCentre #tsn

— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) February 25, 2012"

Nash has a no-movement clause in his contract and can veto a trade if he doesn't want to join a certain team. He reportedly has a list of teams he's willing to go to, but if the Blue Jackets cannot get enough value in return for Nash from one of those teams, it could be a while before the winger is dealt.

It's clear that the Blue Jackets must trade Nash, because after going through many tough years in Columbus, he certainly doesn't want to see the prime of his career ruined because of another rebuilding period for the franchise. 

It's clear that Nash isn't opposed to leaving after eight seasons, and, to be fair, the team has put very little talent around him.

Nash is a proven 30-plus-goal scorer and deserves a shot to play for a Stanley Cup-winning team. Whatever Columbus gets in return for him will certainly help the team rebuild for a brighter future.

Having Nash remain with the team for the final couple months of the year is not a situation both the player and team want going forward. It's pretty obvious he won't be with the team next season, and there's no point in making him wait until the draft to be traded.

Nash and the Blue Jackets must part ways before the deadline for the benefit of both parties.

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Nicholas Goss is a Boston Bruins Featured Columnist for Bleacher Report and was the organization's on-site reporter for the 2011 Stanley Cup Finals in Boston.