When the Columbus Blue Jackets traded disgruntled captain Rick Nash to the New York Rangers on Monday, the most promising piece the team received in return was 21-year old defenseman Tim Erixon.
Drafted with the No. 23 overall selection in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft, Erixon is considered a high-end prospect with the potential to be a top-four puck moving defenseman at the NHL level. Combine that with his 6-foot-3, 205 pound frame, the left-handed shooter could be a valuable piece on a Blue Jackets team that has suddenly developed an impressive backend.
However, with all the positives, Erixon carries a huge negative in the form of attitude problems that may create issues in Columbus. Erixon ended up with the Rangers because he refused to sign with the Calgary Flames after being drafted by the team.
Considering the bleak future on the near horizon, some have speculated that he may not be pleased playing in Columbus.
Via The Cannon:
I have a very hard time accepting Erixon as a piece of the deal. His pouting in Calgary gives me serious pause when it comes to how loyal he'll be to the Jackets.
With the Jeff carter situation fresh in every one's mind and now the Nash trade, the last thing any one in Columbus wants to deal with is another talented player forcing his way out of being a Blue Jacket.
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