Blue Jackets captain Rick Nash asked for a trade, general manager Howson says

The Canadian Press

COLUMBUS, Ohio - The Columbus Blue Jackets say captain Rick Nash asked to be traded.

General manager Scott Howson told a news conference after today's trade deadline Nash approached the team about a deal.

But no trade was made for the star forward, who was seen as one of the biggest catches on deadline day.

Howson says he had "significant discussions'' about Nash leading up to the deadline.

The GM acknowledged the price for Nash was high, adding he didn't apologize for that.

Nash is signed through the 2014-15 season and carries an annual salary cap hit of $7.8 million. His contract includes a no-movement clause.

The Blue Jackets are last in the NHL's overall standings.