Our NHL trade rumors are gathered from media and online sources around the hockey world. You can also consult our index of previously reported trade rumors.
Speculation on a possible destination for Blue Jackets F Rick Nash has focused on the Flyers, Rangers, Kings, Canucks, and Maple Leafs.
The popular theory is that Columbus is aiming big on a possible Nash deal, demanding four prime assets, likely in the form of an impact NHL player, a couple of prospects, and a first-round draft pick.
The Rangers have been the most prominent name in circulation since the Nash rumors began. Names reportedly in play include Rangers F Brandon Dubinsky and D Michael Del Zotto or D Ryan McDonagh. But would a team enjoying such a great season want to overhaul its forward unit to accommodate Nash just before the playoffs begin? Seems unlikely.
Philadelphia is seen as a candidate largely because the team has never shied away from major trades. But Nash would not fill any of their current needs. Darren Dreger at TSN says Columbus would demand a package that includes some combination of F James van Riemsdyk, G Sergei Bobrovsky, F Brayden Schenn, and F Sean Couturier.
The Kings look like a more logical fit. They are the NHL's lowest-scoring team, and have been a disappointment this season. They also have two quality goaltenders, and Columbus could surely use one.
The Canucks are mentioned because G Cory Schneider would make a tempting centerpiece for any trade package. But Vancouver has shown no indication that they will trade Schneider this season, and it seems unlikely that they would tamper with a very successful group of forwards.
Unless they're willing to gut the organization of its top young players, the Maple Leafs do not have the assets to make a Nash trade.
Nash has a no-movement clause in his contract, and has reportedly provided the Blue Jackets with a short list of teams he's willing to join. But it's said that he might consider other destinations if Columbus GM can make a deal elsewhere.
Another side of the Rick Nash conversation: a variety of commentators have asked whether he's worth trading for, considering the Blue Jackets' steep asking price. Besides giving up four key assets, a team acquiring Nash takes on a contract that runs six more years, with a salary cap commitment of $7.8 million per season. He routinely scores 30 goals a year, but hasn't topped 40 since 2008-09, and has never had an 80-point season.
yet another school of thought is that the trade won't happen until the off-season. That's when teams are more willing to change course and remake the roster.
- As the initial excitement of the Rick Nash sweepstakes fades, lots of trade junkies are taking a second look at Blue Jackets F Jeff Carter. He's saddled with a huge contract (11 years at $5.27 million per year). But he has more goals than Nash over the last four years. Given his poor season and the length of his contract, the asking price for Carter is surely modest compared to a potential Nash trade. If he could rediscover his 35-40 goal form, $5.27 per year would be good market value.
- As the trade deadline approaches, the list of potential "sellers" appears to be shrinking. Teams that have recently climbed the standings, like Anaheim, Dallas, and Winnipeg, are presumed to be less likely to make major deals in the short term.
See also:
The NHL Salary Cap Explained
NHL Free Agents
A Guide to the NHL Entry Draft
