COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Everyone expected the Columbus Blue Jackets to make a deal before the NHL’s trade deadline on Monday.
They did. But it did not involve star Rick Nash.
Nash was the most prized player available in the league’s annual late-season market day. Despite reports of strong pushes from several teams, Nash stayed put.
There were rumors that Los Angeles, the New York Rangers, San Jose and Toronto, among others, had at least expressed interest in the four-time All-Star. But general manager Scott Howson made only one small deal. He dealt center Samuel Pahlsson to the Vancouver Canucks for two fourth-round draft picks and minor-league defenseman Taylor Ellington.
The Blue Jackets, with far and away the worst record in the league at 18-37-7 for 43 points, still might shop Nash this summer.
