The New York Rangers are enjoying a six-game winning streak. All is well and quiet in Rangerstown. So why not talk about the trade deadline and Rick Nash.
February 26 is that date circled on many hockey players’ calendars. That is the date of the NHL trade deadline.
For New York Rangers forward Rick Nash, this could be the deadline for his Ranger Career.
Nash is in the final year of his contract and for the first time in his career, he is eligible to be an unrestricted free agent at seasons end. Nash, like most of his teammates, has found his game recently. He has scored four goals in his last four games and has been a big factor in the Rangers win streak.
Considering professional hockey is a business first, would Jeff Gorton consider trading Nash to gain value to the Rangers if the organization isn’t willing to sign him to an extension? Nash has a modified no-trade clause, but that topic is for another discussion.
I’ve [am] aware of that, I’ve thought about that; for sure I have,” Nash told Larry Brooks of the New York Post following practice Tuesday. “It’s not something that’s weighing on me, but of course I’m aware of my contract status and whatever implications might come out of that. It’s the first time in my career that I’m playing for a contract.”
Tough decisions for the organization and for Nash, no doubt. Should the Rangers set themselves up for a playoff run would they be willing to hold on to Nash for a shot at the Cup and then let Nash walk away without any compensation? If they trade Nash by the NHL trade deadline, would they risk the team chemistry the coaching staff has formed amongst the players throughout the season?
“I want to be here, that’s my priority, but I also understand the business side of it and that management has to do what they feel is in the best interests of the organization,” Nash said of his situation. It’s not the first time the Rangers have been in this situation and it won’t be the last.
What would you do if you were Jeff Gorton? If you were in Rick Nash’s skates, would you want to take your only opportunity to the free agent market in July?
For now, it’s all about Chicago on Wednesday night for another Original Six rivalry battle.