NHL Trade Rumors: Blue Jackets Smart Not to Hurry Rick Nash Deal

Another day gone, and another day that Rick Nash is still a member of the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Not only that, according to the Columbus Dispatch's Aaron Portzline, it's becoming apparent you shouldn't expect that to change any time soon.

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Trade talks regarding Blue Jackets captain Rick Nash have gone cold in recent days. Make that colder.

(Scott) Howson, who has a reputation for extreme patience, seems more resolute than ever. He has insisted since February, when he first made Nash’s trade request public, that he will only do a deal when the deal is right for the Blue Jackets.

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While Blue Jackets fans are likely ready to rid themselves of Nash, who has been at the center of trade talk since February, they should feel confident their general manager is practicing "extreme patience."

Nash isn't just some piece of garbage you throw away at the first chance you get.

The nine-year veteran has scored 30 or more goals in seven of his past eight seasons. He has racked up three seasons of at least 60 points and one 79-point year over that span. He is a five-time All-Star and is seen as one of the league's top forwards.

Oh, and he's still just 28. 

So despite Nash wanting out, the Blue Jackets organization can't afford to rush things and get a less-than-ideal package in return. 

He's too valuable to let that happen.

Now, this doesn't mean a trade doesn't need to happen, because it does. It just means the Blue Jackets, who still have Nash on contract until 2018, hold all the power in the situation.

Yes, if they fail to trade their star winger before training camp, things will get a little awkward. But do you really think Nash would hold out, knowing how much money he would lose as a result?

No, he'll keep playing, no matter how disgruntled he might get. 

When it comes down to it, the Jackets have plenty of time to make things happen. They reportedly want a few NHL-caliber forwards in return (per NHL.com, via Rotoworld), and while that may not be on the table currently, there's a better chance of a team getting desperate once the free agency market dries up. 

Sooner or later, the right deal will make itself available for Columbus. These things just take time. 

Patience is a virtue, and Scott Howson is being wise to display his. 

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