Nash to sign long term deal with Columbus Blue Jackets

Reports indicate that the Columbus Blue Jackets are set to sign restricted free agent forward Rick Nash to a five-year contract worth $27 million US.
ESPN The Magazine's E.J. Hradek reported Saturday that the deal was worth $27 million US over five years. The Columbus Dispatch adds that the contract will pay Nash $3.5 million US in the first year, and elevates to $7 million US in the fifth and final year.
"All that's left is a little paperwork," Blue Jackets GM Doug MacLean told the Dispatch Sunday.
"It sets up our franchise for the next five years. Rick made the commitment and Mr. Mac (majority owner John H. McConnell) made the commitment."
Nash, who was taken first overall by the Blue Jackets in 2002, shared the Rocket Richard Trophy with Jarome Iginla and Ilya Kovalchuk after scoring a career-high 41 goals in 2003-04.
"I love it in Columbus," Nash told the Dispatch last week. "There's nowhere else I want to play."
In 2003-04, Nash made $1.185 million US.
Nash was named to the NHL's All-Rookie Team after collecting 17 goals and 22 assists in his rookie season of 2002-03.
Last season, Nash recorded 27 goals and 20 assists while playing with Davos in Switzerland.
-referenced from www.tsn.ca