Blue Jackets' Foligno Comments on Potential Trade

Columbus Blue Jackets captain Nick Foligno has become a popular name on trade bait lists as we approach the trade deadline on April 12th. While the long-time Blue Jacket holds no-trade protection, he admitted he's willing to listen and at least have a conversation should something come up.

Foligno met with Aaron Portzline of the Athletic and had this to say about his future:

We’ll have a conversation if something does come up. It’s hard for me to say. I’ve not really been in this position. If there’s something that needs to be presented, we’ll talk. Otherwise, I’m just going to go about my business the way I always have.

Foligno has appeared in 41 games so far this season and has recorded 16 points. He's a pending free-agent that is likely to head back to Columbus in the off season but that's not going to stop playoff bound teams from inquiring about his price tag.

Teams interested include the Boston Bruins, Colorado Avalanche and Toronto Maple Leafs. It's likely, given his $5.5 million salary, the Blue Jackets will have to retain some of his salary which means they could fetch a better prospect with the more money they are willing to eat.

Look for any decision on Foligno's future in Columbus come down right to the deadline at 3pm eastern on Monday.