NHL Trade Rumors: Rick Nash Would Be Wise to Approve a Trade to Hurricanes

Columbus Blue Jackets forward Rick Nash would be wise to approve a trade to the Carolina Hurricanes if the two teams can find a way to work out a deal involving the Blue Jackets captain.

Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Post-Dispatch has reported that the Hurricanes aren't on Nash's trade list right now. Nash can make a trade list because he has a no-movement clause in his current contract.

"

Confirmed that Carolina is NOT on Rick Nash's list of approved teams. Ottawa also interested and not approved.

— Aaron Portzline (@Aportzline) July 1, 2012"

This news doesn't seem to have discouraged the Hurricanes from at least thinking about acquiring Nash. Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News-Observer details the Hurricanes' plan to add more quality players to their roster this summer.

"

Hearing if Canes' free-agent bid for Parise fails, will further pursue trade for Nash. Apparently offer for Nash has been made.

— Chip Alexander (@ice_chip) July 1, 2012"

Darren Dreger of TSN reports the level of the Hurricanes' interest in the Blue Jackets star.

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Carolina and Detroit are in a strong competition with New York Rangers for Rick Nash.Nothing imminent.Canes said to be pushing hard.

— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) July 1, 2012"

Nash would be a perfect fit on the Hurricanes because he is the goal-scoring power forward that they desperately need on their top line.

The Hurricanes have a star goaltender in Cam Ward, some talented defensemen and a forward group that is continuing to improve. Their offers to Parise and Suter prove their determination to contend for a championship and spend money.

Nash should look at this and realize that Carolina is serious about winning and a team that he can make a strong impact on. Another positive thing about Carolina is that it isn't a major hockey market, so Nash wouldn't be under the intense media pressure that stars in markets such as Toronto, New York and Philadelphia have to deal with on a daily basis.

If Carolina really isn't on Nash's list, then he should strongly consider adding it. If someone wants you and are a good fit, why turn them down? The fact that it will be much better next season makes the decision even easier.

The Hurricanes are a great destination for Nash, and there's no reason for him to refuse to go there.

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Nicholas Goss is an NHL Featured Columnist for Bleacher Report and was also the organization's on-site reporter for the 2011 Stanley Cup Final in Boston.