The Blue Jackets kick-started contract negotiations with superstar winger Rick Nash yesterday, presenting him with a five-year contract offer, the Columbus Dispatch reports.
Nash, who has one-year remaining on his contract, appeared to be a little surprised at the Blue Jackets' offer and the paper claims it was not what he had in mind.
"Things didn't line up the way I anticipated them lining up," Nash told the Dispatch. "I thought we had a solid chance of getting (a contract) done, especially with all the interest they said they had going into this. If they want me that bad, they'll get it done."
Nash, 25, can become an unrestricted free agent next summer. The Blue Jackets are hoping to avoid the possibility of losing their star sniper for nothing.
According to the Dispatch, Blue Jackets GM Scott Howson flew to Toronto on Tuesday to meet with Nash and his agent, Joe Resnick.
"There were tons of teams throwing some pretty big money around [yesterday]," Nash said. "If this doesn't get done, I'm sure I won't have a problem getting signed by somebody next summer."
It's believed Nash was seeking a deal in the 10- to 12-year range. Resnick is expected to present the Blue Jackets with a counter offer later today.
"We'll come back with something and see what they have to say," Nash said. "I would be nicer to be closer, but I have another year either way. I'm in no rush. I can play out the season."
In 78 games with the Blue Jackets this past season, Nash registered 40 goals and 39 assists for 79 points.
Newspaper:
Columbus Dispatch
