Report: Flyers, Blue Jackets discuss Rick Nash trade

The Flyers and Blue Jackets have reportedly re-engaged in trade talks involving Rick Nash. (Jamie Sabau/Getty Images)

The Philadelphia Flyers and Columbus Blue Jackets have begun to engage in new trade talks involving winger Rick Nash, Comcast SportsNet Philadelphia's Tim Panaccio reported Saturday. From the report:

Two sources say the Flyers are in serious discussions with the Blue Jackets to acquire the proven 40-goal winger.

Problem is, do the Flyers have the assets to do the deal without gutting their forward spots? Columbus general manager Scott Howson apparently wants both Brayden Schenn and Sean Couturier or one of them with several other players.

Earlier in June, a reported "10 or more" teams showed interest in Nash. The New York Rangers have made a push for Nash recently, the New York Post reported in mid-June.

Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch reported that the Rangers still "appeared to be the best fit" for Nash, but the Flyers, San Jose Sharks, Toronto Maple Leafs and Carolina Hurricanes also showed strong interest. The Flyers were also in talks with the Blue Jackets before the NHL trade deadline in February.

Nash will cost any team an average cap hit of $7.8 million over the next six seasons. Panaccio reported that the Flyers will have roughly $12 million in salary-cap space going into free agency.