After a deal was not made at last season’s trade deadline, along with the possibility of a move to Philadelphia a month ago, it is all for not now for the Blueshirt faithful. On Monday, the New York Rangers got their man, acquiring highly-touted left-winger Rick Nash from the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Part of a five-player deal on paper that looks like a steal, Nash comes to New York, while fan-favorite Brandon Dubinsky, Artem Anismov, and defensive prospect Tim Erixon go out to Columbus, which is coming off of an NHL-worst 65-point season in 2011-12. The Rangers’ first-round pick in the 2013 Entry Draft was also included.
New York also brought in 21-year old defenseman Steven Delisle, in addition to a conditional 2013 third-round pick. The selection goes back to Columbus if the Rangers make the Stanley Cup Final next season.
In a deal that has been working out the kinks since February, Nash waived his no-trade clause to come to the media capital of the world. Nash, the No. 1 draft pick in 2002, is coming off a 59-point year (30 G, 29 A) for the helpless Blue Jackets. He has never had less than 27 goals in a season, and averaged 33 tallies since 2005-06.
Nash also comes to the Big Apple with a quite hefty contract, although the money works out in a wash with the player’s contracts they are giving up. Nash still has six years left on his deal, at a current cap hit of $7.8 million.
Despite the loss of man power all-around for the Blueshirts, Rangers General Manager Glen Sather knows he made a move to aide in bringing Lord Stanley’s hardware back to New York. “We are happy to have a five-time all-star, a 40-goal scorer, and a guy that’s only 28 years old on our team. He will help us immensely.”
During a conference call that took place later that day, Nash seemed excited about a new beginning with the Rangers. “In finding a team, I thought the Rangers were perfect. I think they have an amazing team, and it is a great fit for my style, and to play there.”
Will Nash and the Rangers make a great fit? It remains to be seen until the puck drops in Los Angeles on October 12. But, we do know one thing…The atmosphere at Madison Square Garden will be unlike any other in 2012-13.