Race to sign Nash intensifies

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Rick Nash’s agent has confirmed that he hopes his client completes his move away from the Columbus Blue Jackets before the trade deadline.

"We're hopeful a deal can get done prior to the trade deadline that is fair and equitable for the Blue Jackets," said Joe Resnick. "However, if a deal is not reached, then the list of acceptable teams will not change at a later date."

Nash has a no-movement clause in his contract, but is believed to be interesting the Rangers, Canucks, Bruins, Kings, Sharks and Maple Leafs.

Nash is contracted with the Blue Jackets until the end of the 2017-18 season and comes with a cap hit of $7.8million.

The Rangers have room for Nash after allowing Wojtek Wolski to join Florida in exchange for a third-round pick in 2013 and minor-league defenseman Mike Vernace. It has been reported that they have already held talks about a possible trade for Nash.

The Vancouver Canucks have also freed up some cap space after putting Keith Ballard on long-term injured reserve. The defenseman is suffering from concussion.

Boston could do the same with Nathan Horton who has a similar ailment, although the Bruins already have almost $11.9million in acquisition space.

Nash has scored 20 goals and 42 points in 61 games for the Blue Jackets this season. He has spent the whole of his career with Columbus, scoring 279 goals and 530 points in 653 games.

The Blue Jackets are having a difficult season and have won just 18 of their 61 matches so far; these stats are of note particularly to those who are looking to bet on hockey.