- Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch: There is a mutual agreement between R.J. Umberger and the Blue Jackets management that a trade out of Columbus would be a good idea. Umberger was a healthy scratch for four games towards the end of the season. Source said that Umberger requested the trade. He carries a $4.6 million through 2016-17, with a no-trade clause that runs through June 14th. A limited no-trade clause kicks in on June 15th, where he lists 10 teams that he doesn’t want to be traded too. There are several teams that could be looking to make some sweeping off-season changes: Sharks, Penguins, Canucks, Capitals and Senators. It’s unlikely that the Blues Jackets would buy out Umberger as it would cost them $1.55 million over six seasons. Umberger said he dealt with some injuries by the end of the season: a broken finger, separated shoulder, a herniated disc and a bruised left hand.
- Aaron Portzline: “To know R.J. Umberger (even a little bit) is to know that the late-season healthy scratches wounded him deeply. All indications are Umberger and Richards kept their relationship professional/respectful, but if the coach is staying long term – he is – it’s a tough spot.
Who do you think should go after Umberger and at what cost?