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"The dude that left in the prime of his career?": NHL fans react as Blue Jackets name Rick Nash director of hockey operations
NHL fans react after the Columbus Blue Jackets named Rick Nash director of hockey operations. Nash was selected first overall in the 2002 NHL draft by Columbus.
After leaving the NHL in 2019 due to a concussion, he moved into the front office role, hired by the Blue Jackets in June 2019 as a special assistant to the general manager. He was promoted to the club's director of player development in June 2021.
After his work with the Blue Jackets, the team named him director of hockey operations.
Following the news, NHL fans were glad that Nash was helping the Blue Jackets front office with roster moves.
"The dude that left in the prime of his career?," a fan wrote.
"Hope it goes well for you guys, I really do," a fan added.
Nash spent his first nine years with Columbus before being traded to New York.
"Ok. I like this but the only thing that worries me is that I heard Nash prioritizes vets over rookies. Or has his interests changed?," a fan wrote.
"Lmfao future GM. They’re gonna be a poverty franchise for eternity," a fan added.
Nash was the general manager for Team Canada at the 2024 IIHF World Championships in Czechia.
"Couldn’t be happier for Rick!," a fan wrote.
"Congratulations, Rick! Excited to see you grow with this role & as always, your love & dedication to this team/franchise is unmatched," a fan wrote.
Rick Nash had his number 61 retired by the Blue Jackets on March 5.
Blue Jackets GM eager for Rick Nash to continue front office career
In Rick Nash's new role with the Blue Jackets, he'll be involved in all aspects of the team’s hockey operations department. Nash will also oversee the development and advancement of players throughout the organization.
Following the announcement, Blue Jackets general manager Don Waddell said in a press release that he's excited about the move.
“Rick Nash is an extremely bright guy who has become an important part of our hockey operations leadership group,” said Waddell in a statement on September 20, via NHL.com.
“He is very passionate about the Columbus Blue Jackets and this community and has been a great resource for me since I arrived here in late-May. Rick made a significant impact on this organization as a player and will continue to do so in his role as director of hockey operations.”
Columbus opens its 2024-25 NHL season on the road on October 10 against the Minnesota Wild.
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