Sunday night’s New York Rangers / Columbus Blue Jacket game quickly went from boisterous hockey contest to first 30 minutes of, The Cider House Rules minus the ether huffing of Michael Caine.
With just over a minute to play in the game and the Blue Jackets net empty, Rick Nash scored the game tying goal, before the Rangers eventually won the game in overtime.
After Nash scored, the Rangers fans began to chant: “We don’t want you… We don’t want you…” No word yet how “on the fence” pregnant teens at the game reacted to the chant.
I don’t know if you’ve heard or not, but Nash is on the trading block, and the Rangers are one of the top contenders to land Nash on or before the NHL’s trade deadline day on February 27th.
The problem is that the Blue Jackets price for Nash is almost prohibitively steep. As reported Saturday on Hockey Night in Canada, the Jackets are asking for an impact player, two high end prospects, and a first round pick. So, essentially, the Blue Jackets want back the 80’s Oilers for a good, not great player.
It’s believed that the Rangers would have to give up one of or a combination of any of the following: Brandon Dubinsky, Ryan McDonagh, Chris Del Zotto, a first round pick and possibly a high end prospect like Chris Kreider.
Nash is certainly talented offensively, and at first glance would help the Rangers, who are tops in the East defensively, but sitting at 11th offensively. I’ve always wondered how Nash would fare with a top playmaking center like Brad Richards. I’m not ready to say, “Hull and Oates” yet, but how can you not think they’re going to tear it up?
So, the issue among Rangers fans, is not that they don’t want Rick Nash, they just don’t want to give up a boatload of young, talented players that may help the Rangers be a contender for years to come.
And if they do get Nash, then who’s going to clean up all those “We’re Sorry” edible fruit baskets off the ice?
Follow Steve on Twitter @steveintheKT. I will always want you.
