NHL Trade Deadline 2012: Blue Jackets Would Be Insane Not to Trade Rick Nash

Today is the final day for the Columbus Blue Jackets to make a blockbuster deal involving Rick Nash, and if they choose not to do move him, they will regret it. 

Currently in dead last in the NHL, the Blue Jackets have nothing else to play for this season.

Trading Nash and focusing on the future is the best move this team can make, but time is running out for a deal to happen. 

Columbus has until 3 p.m. today to get it done, but if for some reason they refuse to pull the trigger on a deal, they won't be getting anywhere in the future. 

According to Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch, signs are pointing to Nash remaining with the Blue Jackets.

"

Told an hour ago that #CBJ Rick Nash trade talk was in a holding pattern, that signs continue to point toward Nash staying put ... for now.

— Aaron Portzline (@Aportzline) February 27, 2012"

The Blue Jackets don't want to lower their trade demands, which is fine. However, compromises must be made at times, especially if its for the betterment of the team. 

By keeping Nash, who is arguably the best guy on the trade market, the Blue Jackets won't be making big strides. Because they should get great value in return for him no matter what, Nash has to go. Columbus will be far better off in moving Nash now.

This season means nothing, and next year won't amount to much either, so trading Nash for young talent that will continue to grow and prosper in the NHL is the Blue Jackets' best bet.