NHL Trade Rumors: Massive Price Tag Will Keep Rick Nash in Columbus

The man that everyone is expecting to move during the the NHL trade deadline may just stay put, as the Columbus Blue Jackets have apparently been putting a massive price tag on star winger Rick Nash.

While many teams were initially interested in acquiring the former No. 1 overall pick, it is becoming quite clear that the team may be biting off more than they can chew.

Most had originally thought that the Eastern Conference leader New York Rangers were the most likely landing spot, but according to ESPN's Katie Strang, it is looking as if the team is dropping out of the race as the Blue Jackets' asking price is out of reach.

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#NYR Doesn't appear Rangers are willing to concede to CBJ demands. At this point, NYR considered out of running for Nash

— Katie Strang (@KatieStrangESPN) February 26, 2012"

With the Rangers potentially out, another landing spot that many were looking at was the seventh placed San Jose Sharks. While they could use all the help they could get, Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun reports that the team is still in on the winger, but they may decide they are better off doing so in the offseason.

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The Sharks still in on Nash but they could probably make a better offer to CBJ in offseason. Leafs and NYR still in talks. Price huge. #NHL

— Bruce Garrioch (@SunGarrioch) February 25, 2012"

The potential of gutting their team is likely just too much for the team to give up with their playoff aspirations hanging on the edge. While they may get the benefit of doubt by staying in the longest, it seems like the Sharks may be somewhat wary of making such a deal.

The other team involved at this point is the Toronto Maple Leafs, who have been a little more quiet during this whole process. Perhaps it is because they no longer find an interest in dealing with the Blue Jackets, as TSN's Darren Dregger reported back on February 12th that the team wanted to know their choice by the 13th.

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Busy day ahead. Leafs will push CBJ to make decision on Nash. Would like to know by tomorrow. NYR will likely do the same. Brown is plan B.

— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) February 24, 2012"

It isn't clear what the Blue Jackets have been asking, but it certainly seems that their price tag is rather steep in comparison to what teams are willing to deal.

The Blue Jackets are way out out of the playoffs, but they do have Nash locked up until 2017. With that said, it isn't like they are in position where they need to trade him before he walks away during the offseason.

Right now would be a great time to deal him, but it looks as if they may have a hard time actually making it happen with the trade deadline less than 24 hours away.

Jeff Chase is a Featured Columnist for the Chicago Cubs and Arizona State football.
Follow @Real_Jeff_Chase