NHL Trade Rumors: Bobby Ryan Is on the Market Again

The Anaheim Ducks made headlines back in November and early December when it was reported that Bobby Ryan was on the trade market. Word came out today that the young scoring forward is on the market once again.

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Hearing ANA's Bobby Ryan is "available" again after being taken off trade market after Randy Carlyle's Duck departure.

— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) June 19, 2012"

This news is important because of Columbus Blue Jacket Rick Nash and the trade rumors that surround him. Columbus general manager Scott Howson is asking for a fortune, and if Ryan—a young, cheaper and more consistent forward—is also up for grabs, Howson will have to lower his asking price.

It is quite possible that Ducks' GM Bob Murray is testing the market because of what teams were considering to part with for Nash. It would be a smart move because Anaheim could haul in a nice return that would strengthen its overall depth.

The Ducks are thin on forward depth outside of their big three, could stand to upgrade their defense and would love to strengthen their prospect pool.

Ryan is a three-time 30-goal scorer who has gradually improved each year. He is worth every penny because of his size, skill and cap-friendly contract. Ryan certainly will make things interesting considering the fact that the free agent market is slimming down as each day goes by.

It will be interesting to see how quickly talks progress considering the NHL Draft is on Friday night.