NHL Trade Rumors: Rick Nash on the Trade Block

The New York Rangers are shopping left-wing Rick Nash in attempt to clear up cap space. It will be difficult to unload his high cap hit.

This weekend Elliotte Friedman said:

You’re going to hear a lot of wild rumours this year George, I think this is going to be a crazy season for them and one of the first to hit is Rick Nash of the New York Rangers. He has a 12-team list that he can be dealt to and there seems to be a little bit of smoke to this one. I think they’ve been asked. I think they’d be willing to do it under the right circumstances.

However, there’s a couple things here. No. 1, he’s got a $7.8 million cap hit for two more seasons — how would that work? And No. 2 , while he struggled this year the Rangers really defended him. They felt that Nash played hurt and that affected his totals and I think they do look at it and say if he’s healthy next year he could be much more effective. But he’s going to be a name and the Rangers are going to be a team to watch.

The Rangers have 56 million locked up for next season with a list of RFAs still to sign, including Chris Kreider, JT Miller, and Kevin Hayes. After a first round playoff exit to the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Rangers are looking to improve their team this summer through trades or free agency.

Nash scored 36 points in 60 games this year while battling injuries, the worst output of his career, but just a year ago he posted 42 goals and 69 points. The Nashville Predators, Colorado Avalanche, Boston Bruins and Anaheim Ducks are possible trade destinations for Rick Nash.