The Blue Jackets were hoping they wouldn't have to trade winger Raffi Torres, but when push came to shove, the team had no other choice, reports the Columbus Dispatch.
According to the paper, the Blue Jackets recently tried to sign Torres to an extension, offering him a two-year contract.
The two sides were unable to come to terms on an agreement, prompting GM Scott Howson to facilitate a trade.
"I'm disappointed I couldn't stay. It's been good here," Torres told the Dispatch. "It just wouldn't be fair to other players if I took the deal. I just have to sit it out and see what happens. The deal just wasn't for me."
Torres, 28, was dealt to the Buffalo Sabres yesterday in exchange for defenseman Nathan Paetsch and a 2010 second-round draft pick.
The Blue Jackets may look to sign Torres this July, when he's schedule to become an unrestricted free agent.
Files from:
Columbus Dispatch
