Both Nick Kypreos of Sportsnet and Katie Strang of ESPN New York report that the New York Rangers have backed out of the Rick Nash Derby, as the Columbus Blue Jackets' asking price hasn't come down.
Blue Jackets GM Scott Howson's asking price for the franchise player is reportedly significant; according to multiple reports he is asking for a roster player, top prospect and a first-round pick, if not more.
Howson's trading partners, however, are slim. The Rangers are among a few teams on Nash's approved list of clubs to which he'd waive his no-movement clause and accept a trade. San Jose and Toronto have also talked to Howson this week.
According to the New York Post, the Blue Jackets were angling for 2009 first-rounder Chris Kreider, playing at Boston College, along with defensemen Ryan McDonagh or Michael Del Zotto in a package that should include forward Brandon Dubinsky and a first-round pick as well.
Does this effectively kill a deal for Nash at the deadline, or does GM Scott Howson go back to other suitors (like the Toronto Maple Leafs) in order to ship out Nash before the 3 p.m. deadline on Monday?