Hockey: New York Rangers
WHAT IT MEANS: The Rangers lost for the first time ever at Consol Energy Center, falling 2-0 to the Penguins on Tuesday night. The Rangers had been 4-0-0 in Pittsburgh’s brand-new building. The Penguins (34-21-5) are now eight points behind the Rangers (38-15-5) in the Atlantic Division and Eastern Conference standings. It was the sixth time the Rangers, who went 0-for-3 on the power play, have been shut out this season, and first since Feb. 7 against New Jersey.
GENO: Evgeni Malkin looks like a serious Hart Trophy candidate. He proved why on Tuesday night. Malkin took a long pass from Kris Letang and opened the scoring 1:05 into the middle frame when he beat Henrik Lundqvist with a backhander on the breakaway. Malkin now ranks second in the NHL in goals with 33. He added his 300th career assist on Steve Sullivan's power play goal at 11:14 of the second.
KING! Lundqvist was pelted with rubber all game long and made 29 saves, but his four-game winning streak between the pipes came to an end, as he fell to 28-12-4 on the season.
WHAT THE HECK? Ryan McDonagh played a 3-minute, 32-second shift in the first period because he couldn’t get off the ice. Stu Bickel thought he was supposed to be a forward during a third-period shift, so Brian Boyle was forced to man one of the points. Bickel got an earful when he headed back to the bench.
SECOND-PERIOD FLEURY: Marc-Andre Fleury (31-14-3) earned his third shutout of the season and franchise-record tying 22nd of his career, making 27 saves. He was at his best in the second period, when he robbed Artem Anisimov on the breakaway with a sprawling glove save, and later snagged Derek Stepan's slapper. Fleury also got a little help from the post on McDonagh’s shot in deep.
UP NEXT: Rangers at Islanders, Friday at 7 p.m.
The Rangers got a good glimpse of what trade target Rick Nash can offer a team when they faced the 6-4, 216-pound Blue Jackets captain Sunday.
Fans at Madison Square Garden weren't too thrilled when the 27-year-old star forced the game into overtime with his game-tying goal late in the third, and they had no problem letting him know about it.
What did the Rangers think of his overall performance?
"He’s a big guy and his feet are always churning. He’s a lot like [Evgeni] Malkin," said top-pair defenseman Ryan McDonagh, who was matched up against Nash for the most of Sunday's 3-2 win over Columbus along with defensive partner Dan Girardi. "He’s got the same kind of hands and he’s so fast in the way he moves with the puck. And definitely his shot, his quick release and how hard it is, those are some of the biggest things he’s got."
Defenseman Michael Del Zotto, who set up Derek Stepan's overtime game-winner Sunday, said Nash is the best of both worlds with his combination of size and skill.
"He can skate, he’s big and he can score. Those are the toughest guys to play against, guys that can move and that are tough to knick off the puck," Del Zotto. "He's a pretty dynamic player."
Rangers defenseman Anton Stralman played with Nash in Columbus for two seasons from 2009-11 and knows him better than most. He sees huge offensive potential for Nash and any team that may be able to land him at the deadline.
"He’s a skilled power forward; obviously, more toward the skilled side of it, but still, he’s a big body that comes with speed, and he finishes checks. He’s got a little bit of everything," Stralman said.
The 25-year-old blue-liner, who likened Nash to Red Wings star forward Pavel Datsyuk, said he thinks Nash could break out offensively given an opportunity to play with a top team.
Taken by the Blue Jackets first overall in the 2002 draft, Nash has spent his entire career inColumbus with little to show for it by way of post-season success. Nash has made only one playoff appearance, during the 2008-09 season when the Blue Jackets were swept in the first round by Detroit.
"He’s one of the best players in the league," Stralman said of Nash, who has posted four straight seasons of 32 goals or more. "He’s been a little bit alone over there [in Columbus] for the past ten years. If he was on any top team in the league, he’d have probably 80 to 100 points each year, whereas now he’s doing 60."
Stralman is aware of the speculation that surrounds his former teammate and, like many players on the Eastern Conference-leading Rangers, is eager to see how it plays out.
"Bunch of rumors going around. That’s what happens when a team struggles for so long. They obviously tried to make changes this year and they didn’t pay off," Stralman said. "I wish him the best. He’s a great guy and a good player."
Fans at Madison Square Garden weren't too thrilled when the 27-year-old star forced the game into overtime with his game-tying goal late in the third, and they had no problem letting him know about it.
What did the Rangers think of his overall performance?
"He’s a big guy and his feet are always churning. He’s a lot like [Evgeni] Malkin," said top-pair defenseman Ryan McDonagh, who was matched up against Nash for the most of Sunday's 3-2 win over Columbus along with defensive partner Dan Girardi. "He’s got the same kind of hands and he’s so fast in the way he moves with the puck. And definitely his shot, his quick release and how hard it is, those are some of the biggest things he’s got."
Defenseman Michael Del Zotto, who set up Derek Stepan's overtime game-winner Sunday, said Nash is the best of both worlds with his combination of size and skill.
"He can skate, he’s big and he can score. Those are the toughest guys to play against, guys that can move and that are tough to knick off the puck," Del Zotto. "He's a pretty dynamic player."
Rangers defenseman Anton Stralman played with Nash in Columbus for two seasons from 2009-11 and knows him better than most. He sees huge offensive potential for Nash and any team that may be able to land him at the deadline.
"He’s a skilled power forward; obviously, more toward the skilled side of it, but still, he’s a big body that comes with speed, and he finishes checks. He’s got a little bit of everything," Stralman said.
The 25-year-old blue-liner, who likened Nash to Red Wings star forward Pavel Datsyuk, said he thinks Nash could break out offensively given an opportunity to play with a top team.
Taken by the Blue Jackets first overall in the 2002 draft, Nash has spent his entire career inColumbus with little to show for it by way of post-season success. Nash has made only one playoff appearance, during the 2008-09 season when the Blue Jackets were swept in the first round by Detroit.
"He’s one of the best players in the league," Stralman said of Nash, who has posted four straight seasons of 32 goals or more. "He’s been a little bit alone over there [in Columbus] for the past ten years. If he was on any top team in the league, he’d have probably 80 to 100 points each year, whereas now he’s doing 60."
Stralman is aware of the speculation that surrounds his former teammate and, like many players on the Eastern Conference-leading Rangers, is eager to see how it plays out.
"Bunch of rumors going around. That’s what happens when a team struggles for so long. They obviously tried to make changes this year and they didn’t pay off," Stralman said. "I wish him the best. He’s a great guy and a good player."
Howson on deadline deals: "Getting closer"
February, 20, 2012
Feb 20
2:11
PM ET
Columbus general manager Scott Howson, who was in attendance for Sunday's Rangers-Blue Jackets game, is garnering plenty of attention of late.
But despite the uptick in speculation -- primarily surrounding one Rick Nash -- Howson said no trade deadline deal is imminent, according to the Columbus Dispatch.
Upon returning home to Ohio, Howson told the Dispatch's Aaron Portzline that he is trying to remain patient with next Monday's trade deadline only a week away.
"We're waiting for the right deals," Howson said. "We're getting closer, but we're not there yet."
In addition to Nash, the Blue Jackets are also rumored to be shopping disgruntled center Jeff Carter and veteran forward Sami Pahlsson, among others.
But despite the uptick in speculation -- primarily surrounding one Rick Nash -- Howson said no trade deadline deal is imminent, according to the Columbus Dispatch.
Upon returning home to Ohio, Howson told the Dispatch's Aaron Portzline that he is trying to remain patient with next Monday's trade deadline only a week away.
"We're waiting for the right deals," Howson said. "We're getting closer, but we're not there yet."
In addition to Nash, the Blue Jackets are also rumored to be shopping disgruntled center Jeff Carter and veteran forward Sami Pahlsson, among others.
Fedotenko feeling better, taking it "day by day"
February, 20, 2012
Feb 20
1:33
PM ET
Rangers forward Ruslan Fedotenko, who has missed five straight games with a concussion, skated for the second straight day with the team Monday.
Fedotenko, sidelined since a fine-worthy hit from then-Lightning forward Dominic Moore February 9, said he is making progress toward a return.
"It's definitely getting closer," he said. "It's day-by-day and we'll go from there."
• • •
In other (non) injury news, defenseman Steve Eminger is fine after being crumpled in a pileup during the third period of Sunday's 3-2 OT win against Columbus.
The 28-year-old, who recently returned after missing two months with a shoulder injury, said he was surprised to get a text from his father after the game asking if he was okay.
Eminger said he felt fine after Columbus' Sami Pahlsson toppled onto him. He said he was held out for the remainder of the game because of coach John Tortorella's decision to shorten the bench, not because of injury.
Fedotenko, sidelined since a fine-worthy hit from then-Lightning forward Dominic Moore February 9, said he is making progress toward a return.
"It's definitely getting closer," he said. "It's day-by-day and we'll go from there."
In other (non) injury news, defenseman Steve Eminger is fine after being crumpled in a pileup during the third period of Sunday's 3-2 OT win against Columbus.
The 28-year-old, who recently returned after missing two months with a shoulder injury, said he was surprised to get a text from his father after the game asking if he was okay.
Eminger said he felt fine after Columbus' Sami Pahlsson toppled onto him. He said he was held out for the remainder of the game because of coach John Tortorella's decision to shorten the bench, not because of injury.
As speculation continues to swirl around the future Columbus Blue Jackets star wing Rick Nash, there are a few new perspectives posted Monday on the topic of a possible trade.
After New York Rangers fans made their preference known at the Garden Sunday, ESPN Insider's Neil Greenberg backed their vocal opinion, writing Monday that Nash, who turns 28 in June, would almost certainly fail to produce at a level worthy of his salary cap hit over the next five seasons.
Factor in any player/prospect/pick package going back to Columbus and it seems that the price for Nash will be a very expensive one, one that the Rangers could be paying for years down the line.
After New York Rangers fans made their preference known at the Garden Sunday, ESPN Insider's Neil Greenberg backed their vocal opinion, writing Monday that Nash, who turns 28 in June, would almost certainly fail to produce at a level worthy of his salary cap hit over the next five seasons.
"Among players in their age 28 to 33 seasons, there have been just six players in the modern era who have hit that 25-goal, 65-point mark (Brett Hull, Guy Lafleur, Jaromir Jagr, Jean Pronovost, Rick Middleton and Yvan Cournoyer) but just one player has done it in all six: Iginla."
Factor in any player/prospect/pick package going back to Columbus and it seems that the price for Nash will be a very expensive one, one that the Rangers could be paying for years down the line.
With next Monday's trade deadline looming and Rick Nash dangling as trade bait in Columbus, Rangers fans find themselves divided into two camps:
1) Those that want general manager Glen Sather to pull the trigger and land the coveted 27-year-old star.
and
2) Those that think the blockbuster deal may be too risky given the hefty price tag Columbus will demand in exchange for their captain.
Where do you fall?
With only a week left until the NHL's trade deadline, Blue Jackets captain Rick Nash is the hot commodity for teams looking to add offense, but should disgruntled center Jeff Carter be considered a viable option as well?
ESPN Insider's Craig Custance takes a look at the two players and argues that Carter may not be such a bad alternative.
Read his take here.
What do you think? Who would you rather have?
ESPN Insider's Craig Custance takes a look at the two players and argues that Carter may not be such a bad alternative.
Read his take here.
What do you think? Who would you rather have?
The Rangers have found themselves on the wrong end of some questionable calls recently, but according to coach John Tortorella, the "no goal" decision at the second-period buzzer of the Rangers 3-2 OT win against Columbus wasn't one of those.
Rangers' defenseman Michael Del Zotto appeared to give the Rangers a 3-1 lead with one-tenth of a second on the clock, but it was ultimately negated by an official review from Toronto.
Although the scoreboard at Madison Square Garden showed the puck crossing the line with 00.1 left on the clock, the official NHL clock was at 0.00 according to referee Don VanMassenhoven.
"Because there's six d--- clocks. The Columbus [feed[ had it at 00.2, MSG [feed] had it at 00.1 but the clock that counts is the one upstairs in the video booth and they sent us a picture down in between periods. It was the correct call," Tortorella said. "With all this HD crap or whatever they do with it, something happens with the clocks -- I have no idea -- but they made the right call."
Del Zotto was disappointed after thinking he scored his eighth goal of the season, but understood given the explanation.
"I don't know why those two are off or what is considered the official clock -- I think that's why everyone boo'ed when they saw the Jumbotron [showed] 00.1," Del Zotto said. "I was a little upset at the time, a little frustrated because it would've been a big goal for us, especially finishing the period and giving us a little insurance, but you just have to keep moving forward and you can't let that get down on you especially in the third period."
• • •
Rangers defenseman Steve Eminger appeared to suffer an injury during the third period, when Samuel Pahlsson fell on the back of his leg/knee in a pileup near the benches. The 28-year-old blue-liner did not return.
The Rangers had no update on his status after the game.
"I don't know. You guys ask me about injuries, I don't know," said an annoyed Tortorella. "I don't check about injuries so you might as well stop asking about injuries. I'll give you a "yes" or a "no" if they can play, but I'm not giving any updates on them because I don't check."
Rangers' defenseman Michael Del Zotto appeared to give the Rangers a 3-1 lead with one-tenth of a second on the clock, but it was ultimately negated by an official review from Toronto.
Although the scoreboard at Madison Square Garden showed the puck crossing the line with 00.1 left on the clock, the official NHL clock was at 0.00 according to referee Don VanMassenhoven.
"Because there's six d--- clocks. The Columbus [feed[ had it at 00.2, MSG [feed] had it at 00.1 but the clock that counts is the one upstairs in the video booth and they sent us a picture down in between periods. It was the correct call," Tortorella said. "With all this HD crap or whatever they do with it, something happens with the clocks -- I have no idea -- but they made the right call."
Del Zotto was disappointed after thinking he scored his eighth goal of the season, but understood given the explanation.
"I don't know why those two are off or what is considered the official clock -- I think that's why everyone boo'ed when they saw the Jumbotron [showed] 00.1," Del Zotto said. "I was a little upset at the time, a little frustrated because it would've been a big goal for us, especially finishing the period and giving us a little insurance, but you just have to keep moving forward and you can't let that get down on you especially in the third period."
Rangers defenseman Steve Eminger appeared to suffer an injury during the third period, when Samuel Pahlsson fell on the back of his leg/knee in a pileup near the benches. The 28-year-old blue-liner did not return.
The Rangers had no update on his status after the game.
"I don't know. You guys ask me about injuries, I don't know," said an annoyed Tortorella. "I don't check about injuries so you might as well stop asking about injuries. I'll give you a "yes" or a "no" if they can play, but I'm not giving any updates on them because I don't check."
NEW YORK, NY – The Rangers may be interested in acquiring star forward Rick Nash, but a contingent of fans at Madison Square Garden Sunday night clearly feel otherwise.
The crowd taunted the Blue Jackets captain with taunts of “We don’t want you!” after the 27-year-old winger tallied the tying goal with 1:33 left in regulation to force the game in overtime.
After the game, Nash laughed off the razzing and seemed unfazed by the fans' serenade.
“I mean, that’s the reception you’re going to get in any building if you score in the last minute to tie it up on the road," Nash answered good-naturedly. “It was an exciting game and it was a tough one. We were lucky to get one point.”
Ultimately, Garden faithful went home happy after Derek Stepan notched the game-winner 22 seconds into the overtime for the 3-2 win. But they may need to change their tune soon.
The Rangers are perceived by many to be the front-runners of the handful of teams pursuing Nash, who was reportedly made available by Columbus earlier this week, largely because of the assets they could provide with top prospects like Chris Kreider, Tim Erixon, J.T. Miller and Dylan McIlrath.
Any deal to bring Nash to Broadway is expected to come at a hefty price tag – some reports indicated Brandon Dubinsky, Kreider and a first-round draft pick, if not more – but the Rangers have legitimate interest in the 27-year-old winger.
Multiple sources confirmed to ESPN.com’s Pierre LeBrun that the Rangers, Kings, Leafs and Flyers have all had discussions with Columbus this past week regarding Nash.
Columbus General Manager Scott Howson was in attendance for Sunday’s match – he watched the game with assistant GM Chris MacFarland from his seat in the auxiliary press box – but it is unclear whether he sat down with Rangers GM Glen Sather while in New York.
Swarmed by reporters in a pre-game gathering, Nash politely sidestepped questions regarding his status with the team.
The former first overall draft pick, who has spent his entire career with Columbus, offered a “no comment” when asked whether he could envision playing in New York and whether the Rangers were on his list of acceptable teams to which he would waive his no-movement clause and accept a trade.
Before the game, Nash conceded that all the trade talk has been a distraction for the downtrodden Blue Jackets, but said he is keeping his focus.
"I just worry about today. Right now, I'm a Blue Jacket and that's what matters," Nash said. "I've played my whole career here and I'm dealing with a game I have to play in two hours, so that's all I'm worrying about."
After the game, Nash was complimentary of the Eastern Conference-leading Rangers, who improved to 38-14-5 with the overtime victory.
“They’re a very good team,” Nash said. “You can see why they’re in first place.”
The crowd taunted the Blue Jackets captain with taunts of “We don’t want you!” after the 27-year-old winger tallied the tying goal with 1:33 left in regulation to force the game in overtime.
After the game, Nash laughed off the razzing and seemed unfazed by the fans' serenade.
“I mean, that’s the reception you’re going to get in any building if you score in the last minute to tie it up on the road," Nash answered good-naturedly. “It was an exciting game and it was a tough one. We were lucky to get one point.”
Ultimately, Garden faithful went home happy after Derek Stepan notched the game-winner 22 seconds into the overtime for the 3-2 win. But they may need to change their tune soon.
The Rangers are perceived by many to be the front-runners of the handful of teams pursuing Nash, who was reportedly made available by Columbus earlier this week, largely because of the assets they could provide with top prospects like Chris Kreider, Tim Erixon, J.T. Miller and Dylan McIlrath.
Any deal to bring Nash to Broadway is expected to come at a hefty price tag – some reports indicated Brandon Dubinsky, Kreider and a first-round draft pick, if not more – but the Rangers have legitimate interest in the 27-year-old winger.
Multiple sources confirmed to ESPN.com’s Pierre LeBrun that the Rangers, Kings, Leafs and Flyers have all had discussions with Columbus this past week regarding Nash.
Columbus General Manager Scott Howson was in attendance for Sunday’s match – he watched the game with assistant GM Chris MacFarland from his seat in the auxiliary press box – but it is unclear whether he sat down with Rangers GM Glen Sather while in New York.
Swarmed by reporters in a pre-game gathering, Nash politely sidestepped questions regarding his status with the team.
The former first overall draft pick, who has spent his entire career with Columbus, offered a “no comment” when asked whether he could envision playing in New York and whether the Rangers were on his list of acceptable teams to which he would waive his no-movement clause and accept a trade.
Before the game, Nash conceded that all the trade talk has been a distraction for the downtrodden Blue Jackets, but said he is keeping his focus.
"I just worry about today. Right now, I'm a Blue Jacket and that's what matters," Nash said. "I've played my whole career here and I'm dealing with a game I have to play in two hours, so that's all I'm worrying about."
After the game, Nash was complimentary of the Eastern Conference-leading Rangers, who improved to 38-14-5 with the overtime victory.
“They’re a very good team,” Nash said. “You can see why they’re in first place.”
Rapid Reaction: Rangers 3, Blue Jackets 2 (OT)
February, 19, 2012
Feb 19
10:31
PM ET
What it means: Well, the crowd at Madison Square Garden wasn't so welcoming toward trade target Rick Nash. The crowd taunted Nash with chants of "We don't want you!" after the 27-year-old Blue Jackets tallied the game-tying goal for Columbus late in the third period to force the game into overtime. The crowd went home happy, however, after Derek Stepan, notched the game-winner 22 seconds into overtime to give the Rangers a 3-2 win.
Nash-tracker: The prospect of landing Nash must have gotten a little more enticing to Rangers fans, as they got a good first-hand glimpse of his potential. Nash tallied the game-tying goal for Columbus, knotting the teams at 2 with 1:33 to play in his much-anticipated visit to New York. Before the game, Nash declined to comment about the prospect of playing for New York.
Controversial call: The Rangers appeared to take a 3-1 lead at the buzzer of the second-period, although defenseman Michael Del Zotto’s goal was ultimately ruled a no goal after video review. Scoreboard shots showed the puck crossing the line with 00.1 seconds left on the clock, but according to referee Don VanMassenhoven, the official game clock in Toronto was at 0.00. The announcement was, predictably, met with a massive round of boos at Madison Square Garden.
Eminger ailing: Recently-returned from a separated shoulder injury, defenseman Steve Eminger appeared to suffer an injury during the third period when Samuel Pahlsson fell on the back of his lef in a pileup near the benches. The 28-year-old blue-liner did not play the remainder of the game.
Re-claim lead: After Derick Brassard tied the game for Columbus with his slapshot from the blue line at 5:26 of the second, but Artem Anisimov reclaimed the lead later in the period. Pouncing on defenseman Dan Girardi’s point shot that took a carom off the end-boards, Anisimov tallied his 11th of the season at 13:13.
Rocket from Richards: Brad Richards tallied his first goal in five games to snap a scoreless draw late in the first. Completing a seamless give-and-go with rookie linemate Carl Hagelin, Richards one-timed the puck past Mason for a 1-0 Rangers lead with 2:11 to play in the period.
Scott Sighting: Blue Jackets General Manager Scott Howson watched Sunday’s game with assistant GM Chris MacFarland from his season in the auxiliary press box. It is unclear whether he had an in-person meeting with Rangers GM Glen Sather while in town. However, he did meet with Maple Leafs GM Brian Burke Sunday morning, Burke confirmed to ESPNNewYork.com via email.
Up Next: Rangers at Penguins, Tuesday at 7 p.m.
Nash-tracker: The prospect of landing Nash must have gotten a little more enticing to Rangers fans, as they got a good first-hand glimpse of his potential. Nash tallied the game-tying goal for Columbus, knotting the teams at 2 with 1:33 to play in his much-anticipated visit to New York. Before the game, Nash declined to comment about the prospect of playing for New York.
Controversial call: The Rangers appeared to take a 3-1 lead at the buzzer of the second-period, although defenseman Michael Del Zotto’s goal was ultimately ruled a no goal after video review. Scoreboard shots showed the puck crossing the line with 00.1 seconds left on the clock, but according to referee Don VanMassenhoven, the official game clock in Toronto was at 0.00. The announcement was, predictably, met with a massive round of boos at Madison Square Garden.
Eminger ailing: Recently-returned from a separated shoulder injury, defenseman Steve Eminger appeared to suffer an injury during the third period when Samuel Pahlsson fell on the back of his lef in a pileup near the benches. The 28-year-old blue-liner did not play the remainder of the game.
Re-claim lead: After Derick Brassard tied the game for Columbus with his slapshot from the blue line at 5:26 of the second, but Artem Anisimov reclaimed the lead later in the period. Pouncing on defenseman Dan Girardi’s point shot that took a carom off the end-boards, Anisimov tallied his 11th of the season at 13:13.
Rocket from Richards: Brad Richards tallied his first goal in five games to snap a scoreless draw late in the first. Completing a seamless give-and-go with rookie linemate Carl Hagelin, Richards one-timed the puck past Mason for a 1-0 Rangers lead with 2:11 to play in the period.
Scott Sighting: Blue Jackets General Manager Scott Howson watched Sunday’s game with assistant GM Chris MacFarland from his season in the auxiliary press box. It is unclear whether he had an in-person meeting with Rangers GM Glen Sather while in town. However, he did meet with Maple Leafs GM Brian Burke Sunday morning, Burke confirmed to ESPNNewYork.com via email.
Up Next: Rangers at Penguins, Tuesday at 7 p.m.
NEW YORK, NY -- Columbus Blue Jackets captain Rick Nash was tight-lipped about a potential trade that could bring him to Broadway.
The prized 27-year-old winger was reportedly placed on the trading block earlier this week by the last-place Blue Jackets, who are in town to play the Rangers at Madison Square Garden Sunday, but Nash provided little insight on where he will wind up when the NHL's trade deadline passes next Monday at 3 p.m.
"I just worry about today. Right now, I'm a Blue Jacket and that's what matters," Nash said. "I've played my whole career here and I'm dealing with a game I have to play in two hours, so that's all I'm worrying about."
Surrounded by a large media contingent, Nash carefully sidestepped whether he'd like to remain a Blue Jacket or be dealt by the deadline.
"It's going to take care of itself. I'm a Blue Jacket right now," said
Nash, whose Columbus squad is 4-6-0 over the last ten games. "It's fun. We're playing great hockey, it's been fun to be around. It's been a tough year for us, but right now, when you're winning games...it becomes a different game."
When asked whether the Rangers, perceived by many to be among the front-runners to land the franchise player, were on his "approved" list of teams to which he'd waive his no-movement clause and accept a trade, Nash replied:
"No comment."
Nash offered the same refrain when asked if he could see himself playing for the Rangers, who are among a handful of teams in hot pursuit of the former first overall pick. Multiple sources confirmed to ESPN.com's Pierre LeBrun that the Rangers, Kings, Leafs and Flyers have all held talks this week with Columbus regarding Nash.
Does Nash think about what it might be like to play at Madison Square Garden now that he's here with the trade deadline a little over a week away?
"No, You're in different buildings every night pretty much, so it's just another game," Nash said.
He did not seem fazed by the crush of reporters that swarmed him hours before the game, however.
"I'm fine," he said. "I played in the Olympics a couple of times for Canada, so this is really nothing compared to that."
Fielding inquiries about his future, Nash did not reveal much but he did concede that the recent hype has been a "distraction" for the downtrodden Blue Jackets.
"It's been distracting for our team," said Nash, who has 18 goals and
21 assists in 58 games for Columbus this season. "We've been playing great hockey, that's the important thing. We've been getting some wins and it's been fun."
The distractions are bound to multiply over the next eight days as teams jockey to land the star player, who is on the second year of an eight-year, $62.4 million deal.
Columbus general manager Scott Howson met with Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Brian Burke in Manhattan Sunday morning, Burke confirmed to ESPNNewYork.com, and Howson is expected to meet with Rangers GM Glen Sather at some point during his trip to New York as well.
The prized 27-year-old winger was reportedly placed on the trading block earlier this week by the last-place Blue Jackets, who are in town to play the Rangers at Madison Square Garden Sunday, but Nash provided little insight on where he will wind up when the NHL's trade deadline passes next Monday at 3 p.m.
"I just worry about today. Right now, I'm a Blue Jacket and that's what matters," Nash said. "I've played my whole career here and I'm dealing with a game I have to play in two hours, so that's all I'm worrying about."
Surrounded by a large media contingent, Nash carefully sidestepped whether he'd like to remain a Blue Jacket or be dealt by the deadline.
"It's going to take care of itself. I'm a Blue Jacket right now," said
Nash, whose Columbus squad is 4-6-0 over the last ten games. "It's fun. We're playing great hockey, it's been fun to be around. It's been a tough year for us, but right now, when you're winning games...it becomes a different game."
When asked whether the Rangers, perceived by many to be among the front-runners to land the franchise player, were on his "approved" list of teams to which he'd waive his no-movement clause and accept a trade, Nash replied:
"No comment."
Nash offered the same refrain when asked if he could see himself playing for the Rangers, who are among a handful of teams in hot pursuit of the former first overall pick. Multiple sources confirmed to ESPN.com's Pierre LeBrun that the Rangers, Kings, Leafs and Flyers have all held talks this week with Columbus regarding Nash.
Does Nash think about what it might be like to play at Madison Square Garden now that he's here with the trade deadline a little over a week away?
"No, You're in different buildings every night pretty much, so it's just another game," Nash said.
He did not seem fazed by the crush of reporters that swarmed him hours before the game, however.
"I'm fine," he said. "I played in the Olympics a couple of times for Canada, so this is really nothing compared to that."
Fielding inquiries about his future, Nash did not reveal much but he did concede that the recent hype has been a "distraction" for the downtrodden Blue Jackets.
"It's been distracting for our team," said Nash, who has 18 goals and
21 assists in 58 games for Columbus this season. "We've been playing great hockey, that's the important thing. We've been getting some wins and it's been fun."
The distractions are bound to multiply over the next eight days as teams jockey to land the star player, who is on the second year of an eight-year, $62.4 million deal.
Columbus general manager Scott Howson met with Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Brian Burke in Manhattan Sunday morning, Burke confirmed to ESPNNewYork.com, and Howson is expected to meet with Rangers GM Glen Sather at some point during his trip to New York as well.
At a glance: Looking for a bounce-back performance after Thursday’s disappointing 4-2 loss to Chicago, the Rangers host the last-place Columbus Blue Jackets at Madison Square Garden. The lopsided match-up will likely take a back seat to the off-ice interplay between the two organizations, however, with Rick Nash paying a visit to Broadway as trade talk heats up.
Nash-sanity: The Rangers are one of a handful of teams pushing to land the coveted 27-year-old Nash and Sunday presents the first live look at what he has to offer. Long considered un-moveable by Columbus, Nash was reportedly placed on the trading block by the beleaguered Blue Jackets early last week igniting a firestorm of speculation around the league. The former first overall pick, who has spent his entire career in Columbus, would provide the Eastern Conference-leading Rangers with another dangerous scoring threat up front. Nash, on the second year of a eight-year, $62.4 million deal, has 18 goals and 21 assists in 58 games for Columbus this season.
Strong scouting presence: Columbus has had a strong and steady scouting presence at Rangers’ games this past week. Howson was in Philadelphia Saturday for the team’s 5-2 win over the Flyers and will be in town Sunday to take in the match between the Rangers and his Blue Jackets. Assistant general manager Chris MacFarland was in Boston for the Rangers’ 3-0 shutout victory against the Bruins and watched the Blueshirts fall 4-2 to Chicago at home Thursday. Blue Jackets senior advisor Craig Patrick attended the Rangers’ minor-league team’s 6-3 win over Springfield Friday in Hartford, CT, although it should be noted that Springfield is Columbus’ AHL affiliate.
In pursuit: Howson is expected to meet with Rangers general manager Glen Sather, but Sather isn’t the only GM in hot pursuit of Nash. A source confirmed to ESPNNewYork.com that Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Brian Burke, New York on unrelated business, met with Howson in Manhattan Sunday morning. With eight days remaining until the NHL deadline, a handful of teams are courting Nash. Multiple sources confirmed to ESPN.com’s Pierre LeBrun that the Rangers, Kings, Leafs and Flyers are among teams that have had trade talks with Columbus regarding Nash.
Still sitting: Ruslan Fedotenko will sit out his fourth straight game with an undisclosed injury that is assumed to be a concussion. The veteran winger has not played since last Thursday after a fine-worthy hit from then-Lightning forward Dominic Moore, who has since been traded to San Jose. Wojtek Wolski and defenseman Jeff Woywitka will be scratched for the second straight game since returning from their two-week AHL conditioning stints.
Nash-sanity: The Rangers are one of a handful of teams pushing to land the coveted 27-year-old Nash and Sunday presents the first live look at what he has to offer. Long considered un-moveable by Columbus, Nash was reportedly placed on the trading block by the beleaguered Blue Jackets early last week igniting a firestorm of speculation around the league. The former first overall pick, who has spent his entire career in Columbus, would provide the Eastern Conference-leading Rangers with another dangerous scoring threat up front. Nash, on the second year of a eight-year, $62.4 million deal, has 18 goals and 21 assists in 58 games for Columbus this season.
Strong scouting presence: Columbus has had a strong and steady scouting presence at Rangers’ games this past week. Howson was in Philadelphia Saturday for the team’s 5-2 win over the Flyers and will be in town Sunday to take in the match between the Rangers and his Blue Jackets. Assistant general manager Chris MacFarland was in Boston for the Rangers’ 3-0 shutout victory against the Bruins and watched the Blueshirts fall 4-2 to Chicago at home Thursday. Blue Jackets senior advisor Craig Patrick attended the Rangers’ minor-league team’s 6-3 win over Springfield Friday in Hartford, CT, although it should be noted that Springfield is Columbus’ AHL affiliate.
In pursuit: Howson is expected to meet with Rangers general manager Glen Sather, but Sather isn’t the only GM in hot pursuit of Nash. A source confirmed to ESPNNewYork.com that Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Brian Burke, New York on unrelated business, met with Howson in Manhattan Sunday morning. With eight days remaining until the NHL deadline, a handful of teams are courting Nash. Multiple sources confirmed to ESPN.com’s Pierre LeBrun that the Rangers, Kings, Leafs and Flyers are among teams that have had trade talks with Columbus regarding Nash.
Still sitting: Ruslan Fedotenko will sit out his fourth straight game with an undisclosed injury that is assumed to be a concussion. The veteran winger has not played since last Thursday after a fine-worthy hit from then-Lightning forward Dominic Moore, who has since been traded to San Jose. Wojtek Wolski and defenseman Jeff Woywitka will be scratched for the second straight game since returning from their two-week AHL conditioning stints.
Leafs pursuing Nash? Burke has NYC meeting w/Howson
February, 19, 2012
Feb 19
1:30
PM ET
As reported earlier by ESPNNewYork.com, Columbus general manager Scott Howson will be in attendance for Sunday's game between the Rangers and the Blue Jackets at Madison Square Garden.
Given the Rangers' interest in prized forward Rick Nash, it is expected that Howson and general manager Glen Sather will meet at some point during his visit to New York, if they haven't already.
But assuming that sit-down takes place, Sather won't be the only GM in town courting the Blue Jackets' captain.
A source confirmed to ESPNNewYork.com that Toronto Maple Leafs GM Brian Burke, in New York on un-related business, met with Howson in an "un-scheduled" meeting this morning.
According to the Columbus Dispatch, Toronto is one of a handful of teams on Nash's "approved" list of destinations to which he'd waive his no-movement clause and accept a trade. In addition to the Rangers, San Jose Sharks, Vancouver Canucks and Boston Bruins are believed to round out that list.
Multiple sources confirmed to ESPN.com's Pierre LeBrun that the Rangers, Kings, Leafs and Flyers are among teams that have held trade talks this past week with Columbus regarding Nash.
Speculation and trade talk is expected to heat up in advance of Sunday's game between Nash's Blue Jackets and the rumored front-runners. Although long-considered untouchable, Nash was reportedly made available by the beleaguered Blue Jackets early last week.
Several teams are interested in acquiring the talented winger, but Howson's asking price will be significant and Nash remains in the driver's seat. He must approve any potential trade because of his no-movement clause.
The NHL trade deadline is Monday, February 27 at 3 p.m.
Given the Rangers' interest in prized forward Rick Nash, it is expected that Howson and general manager Glen Sather will meet at some point during his visit to New York, if they haven't already.
But assuming that sit-down takes place, Sather won't be the only GM in town courting the Blue Jackets' captain.
A source confirmed to ESPNNewYork.com that Toronto Maple Leafs GM Brian Burke, in New York on un-related business, met with Howson in an "un-scheduled" meeting this morning.
According to the Columbus Dispatch, Toronto is one of a handful of teams on Nash's "approved" list of destinations to which he'd waive his no-movement clause and accept a trade. In addition to the Rangers, San Jose Sharks, Vancouver Canucks and Boston Bruins are believed to round out that list.
Multiple sources confirmed to ESPN.com's Pierre LeBrun that the Rangers, Kings, Leafs and Flyers are among teams that have held trade talks this past week with Columbus regarding Nash.
Speculation and trade talk is expected to heat up in advance of Sunday's game between Nash's Blue Jackets and the rumored front-runners. Although long-considered untouchable, Nash was reportedly made available by the beleaguered Blue Jackets early last week.
Several teams are interested in acquiring the talented winger, but Howson's asking price will be significant and Nash remains in the driver's seat. He must approve any potential trade because of his no-movement clause.
The NHL trade deadline is Monday, February 27 at 3 p.m.
No goaltender for Nash? Not a dealbreaker
February, 19, 2012
Feb 19
10:27
AM ET
Columbus is in dire need of goaltending and would presumably like to bolster the position in any trade involving captain Rick Nash.
The Rangers, assumed by many to be front-runners in a potential blockbuster deal to land the sought-after 27-year-old forward, don't have one to dangle as trade bait.
Deal-breaker?
Apparently not.
While the Blue Jackets are planning an "overhaul" in net during the summer, they have not made goaltending a "demand," according to the Columbus Dispatch.
"We want value," a source told the paper. "Doesn't have to be that position."
Los Angeles is one of the six teams reportedly on Nash's approved list of clubs to whom he'd accept a trade -- he has a no-movement clause he'd have to waive -- and they have backup Jonathan Bernier reportedly available, although doubts remain on whether he is a bona fide starter.
The Rangers host the Blue Jackets Sunday at Madison Square Garden.
The Rangers, assumed by many to be front-runners in a potential blockbuster deal to land the sought-after 27-year-old forward, don't have one to dangle as trade bait.
Deal-breaker?
Apparently not.
While the Blue Jackets are planning an "overhaul" in net during the summer, they have not made goaltending a "demand," according to the Columbus Dispatch.
"We want value," a source told the paper. "Doesn't have to be that position."
Los Angeles is one of the six teams reportedly on Nash's approved list of clubs to whom he'd accept a trade -- he has a no-movement clause he'd have to waive -- and they have backup Jonathan Bernier reportedly available, although doubts remain on whether he is a bona fide starter.
The Rangers host the Blue Jackets Sunday at Madison Square Garden.
Rangers not worried about trade affecting chemistry
February, 18, 2012
Feb 18
2:48
PM ET
It’s that time of year when rumors build and speculation escalates and, with next Monday's trade deadline on the near horizon, the Rangers find themselves in the midst of mounting trade chatter.
The 37-14-5 Blueshirts are reportedly one of the front-runners to land coveted winger Rick Nash, who the last-place Columbus Blue Jackets placed on the trading block earlier this week, but the potential blockbuster deal poses some serious questions:
Do the Eastern Conference-leading Rangers need Nash? And how could the move affect an already strong team chemistry?
“I believe in team chemistry and all that. I don’t believe in us worrying about it,” said alternate captain Brad Richards. “That’s something that people are paid to do above us. We’re all confident, as every player usually is, [that] we’ve got a great room. No matter what happens, we’re able to handle it. As far as commenting on chemistry and all that, that’s for [coach John Tortorella] and management and those people to monitor. We’ve got enough to worry about.”
Although a move to bring in the 27-year-old Nash would require the Rangers to part with significant assets and potentially disrupt the team’s nucleus, players are not concerned with it jeopardizing the team’s identity.
“We’ve got a tight group and we all want to win, so if it’s something that will help the team, we’re all for it,” veteran Mike Rupp said. “But at the same time, we believe in what we’ve got here now.”
So does Tortorella, who said “I like our club” when asked about the implications of any addition or subtraction to the team.
Tortorella didn’t want to weigh in on the trade deadline – in fact, he said he didn’t even know when it was – but conceded that chemistry must always be weighed when considering a deal.
"Those are discussions you have to have. I'm not going to talk about it one way or another right now, because I'm worried about Columbus, but every organization goes through it and they have to have discussions," Tortorella said. "I know all the owners and general managers are always looking to improve their team, but there are certain situations and things to discuss as far as chemistry. I’ll give you that."
Tortorella re-iterated his trust in the club and said he is not concerned with his players losing focus as the deadline approaches. Internally, the team has yet to discuss the impending distraction and, according to Richards, may not need to.
“It hasn’t been addressed. I don’t know if it has to be,” Richards said. “Guys have been handling it well. If we do know someone’s struggling with it or thinking about it, definitely we’ll try to help out, but it’s the nature of the business, and when you sign up for this, we know things like this happen. We’re all pros and we’ve got to act like pros in that situation.”
Regardless of what transpires over the next eight days, the Rangers will be glad when the deadline passes. One less distraction in a season of many.
“It kind of hangs over for a couple weeks or the week leading up to it. There’s rumors, there’s speculation, you hear names being tossed around,” alternate captain Marc Staal said. “It’s nice when that day is over.”
The 37-14-5 Blueshirts are reportedly one of the front-runners to land coveted winger Rick Nash, who the last-place Columbus Blue Jackets placed on the trading block earlier this week, but the potential blockbuster deal poses some serious questions:
Do the Eastern Conference-leading Rangers need Nash? And how could the move affect an already strong team chemistry?
“I believe in team chemistry and all that. I don’t believe in us worrying about it,” said alternate captain Brad Richards. “That’s something that people are paid to do above us. We’re all confident, as every player usually is, [that] we’ve got a great room. No matter what happens, we’re able to handle it. As far as commenting on chemistry and all that, that’s for [coach John Tortorella] and management and those people to monitor. We’ve got enough to worry about.”
Although a move to bring in the 27-year-old Nash would require the Rangers to part with significant assets and potentially disrupt the team’s nucleus, players are not concerned with it jeopardizing the team’s identity.
“We’ve got a tight group and we all want to win, so if it’s something that will help the team, we’re all for it,” veteran Mike Rupp said. “But at the same time, we believe in what we’ve got here now.”
So does Tortorella, who said “I like our club” when asked about the implications of any addition or subtraction to the team.
Tortorella didn’t want to weigh in on the trade deadline – in fact, he said he didn’t even know when it was – but conceded that chemistry must always be weighed when considering a deal.
"Those are discussions you have to have. I'm not going to talk about it one way or another right now, because I'm worried about Columbus, but every organization goes through it and they have to have discussions," Tortorella said. "I know all the owners and general managers are always looking to improve their team, but there are certain situations and things to discuss as far as chemistry. I’ll give you that."
Tortorella re-iterated his trust in the club and said he is not concerned with his players losing focus as the deadline approaches. Internally, the team has yet to discuss the impending distraction and, according to Richards, may not need to.
“It hasn’t been addressed. I don’t know if it has to be,” Richards said. “Guys have been handling it well. If we do know someone’s struggling with it or thinking about it, definitely we’ll try to help out, but it’s the nature of the business, and when you sign up for this, we know things like this happen. We’re all pros and we’ve got to act like pros in that situation.”
Regardless of what transpires over the next eight days, the Rangers will be glad when the deadline passes. One less distraction in a season of many.
“It kind of hangs over for a couple weeks or the week leading up to it. There’s rumors, there’s speculation, you hear names being tossed around,” alternate captain Marc Staal said. “It’s nice when that day is over.”
ABOUT THIS BLOG
Katie Strang
After spending the past two seasons as the Islanders beat writer for Newsday, Katie Strang joins ESPNNewYork.com to cover the Rangers, Isles and Devils. She is a graduate of Michigan State University and Columbia University's Graduate School of Journalism.
Mike Hume
Mike Hume is a general editor for ESPN Insider, for which he coordinates NHL coverage, including the NHL Draft Blog. He has followed hockey since The Whale skated at the Civvy, and has covered the sport since 2004.
