While 27-year-old Nash has an average annual cap hit of $7.8 million for the next six seasons, which is considered the standard asking price for a top player, his stats could make Nieuwendyk hesitate.
In 82 games with the Jackets this season, Nash collected 30 goals and 29 assists for 59 points, while his career-best in 79 points in 78 games in the 2008-09 season.
The Stars would need to figure out whether or not Nash has been stuck in a bad system in Columbus, and whether or not he would be able to break out if he was placed on a line with forwards Jamie Benn and Loui Eriksson in Dallas.
Nieuwendyk would also have to look at what the Jackets would want in return to pull off this trade.
The New York Rangers, who attempted to acquire Nash at the trade deadline in February, publicly stated that Columbus GM Scott Howson' demands were extremely high, and if the price tag remains elevated, the Stars would be forced to give up a solid player, a top prospect or two and a high draft pick if they wanted to acquire Nash.
While the Stars could benefit from a player like Nash, the heavy financial commitment and the Jackets' high demands could be too much of a risk to take.
Nieuwendyk might prefer to go after New Jersey Devils captain Zach Parise, if he hits free agency this summer.
Other scorers available in free agency this summer include the Washington Capitals' Alexander Semin, Phoenix Coyotes captain Shane Doan, Edmonton Oilers veteran Ryan Smyth and Buffalo Sabres forward Brad Boyes.
