NHL Trade Rumors: Rick Nash Would Solidify N.Y. Rangers as Eastern Favorites

Winning later is overrated.

The New York Rangers have waited too long to climb all the way back to the top to worry about the future.  They must sell the farm if that’s what it takes to trade for Rick Nash, because he’d without a doubt make them the Eastern Conference favorites, if not the favorites to win the whole thing.

ESPN’s Pierre LeBrun reported that the Rangers are believed to be the favorite to deal for Nash.  Having not been to the conference finals since 1997, N.Y. is long overdue for a contender.  Now that they’re 39-15-6 and in first place in the East, passing up such an opportunity would be nuts, even if they’d be forced to make a significant sacrifice.

And on that note, the New York Times’ Chris Botta tweeted:

"

I can see #NYR best offer for Nash as Dubinsky, Erixon, 2012 1st and a conditional pick based on NYR success next 2 years.

— Chris Botta (@ChrisBottaNHL) February 25, 2012"

There isn’t an overwhelming majority in support for such a swap.  For example, the New York Post’s Larry Brooks tweeted:

"

Told that Erixon is in play to Columbus....pretty shortsighted if you ask me...

— Larry Brooks(@NYP_Brooksie) February 25, 2012"

Sure, the 22-year-old Erickson is a promising prospect, but why roll the dice on potential when a Stanley Cup is in the Rangers' grasp? 

Nash is a five-time All-Star.  He is one of the most talented wings in the league.  If they fall short this season, skating by the opportunity to add such a skilled player to their roster would be a move that the Rangers would regret.

David Daniels is a featured columnist at Bleacher Report and a syndicated writer.

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