Rick Nash Must Be Granted His Trade Request by Columbus Blue Jackets

The 2012 NHL trade deadline has come and gone, and the biggest name on the block didn't go anywhere.

A lackluster trade deadline was a letdown for hockey fans, as well as for Rick Nash of the Columbus Blue Jackets. 

Columbus never got an offer it fell in love with, so it chose not to deal Nash. That's fine, but since he wants out, the Blue Jackets should meet his wishes this offseason. 

He's been loyal to them, and it's only right that they trade him and look toward the future. Nash told the Associated Press that he felt it would have benefited everyone if he had been traded:

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"I was informed by management that there was a rebuild, a reshape, in the team and I personally felt I could be a huge part of that towards bringing assets in," he said. "In my view, that was the best thing for the team, the organization, and personally for my career."

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Nash isn't the type of player to stir controversy and get angry because he wasn't traded. However, he deserves to be moved from a losing franchise, especially considering he's been with the team his entire career. 

By dealing him at the deadline, Nash could have joined a contender and Columbus could build for tomorrow. Apparently, the Blue Jackets weren't too high on the offers they received, so Nash stays put.

It's unfortunate, but all it means is that a trade must be worked out in the offseason. 

Currently in last place in the NHL, the Blue Jackets should have dealt Nash at the deadline.  If they intend to keep Nash around for next year—or longer—that's a pitiful move on their part. 

Nash has been the face of the franchise, so it's tough to part ways with him. However, dealing him will bring in great talent to build around for the future, which is the best thing Columbus can do right now. 

He wants to play for a contender, and Columbus should make that happen for him this offseason.