They said it couldn't be done......
Jeff Simmons
The Toronto Maple Leafs traded forward David Clarkson to the Columbus Blue Jackets for forward Nathan Horton.
Clarkson, 30, has struggled since signing a seven-year, $36.75 million contract with Toronto in the summer of 2013. In 118 games over two seasons, Clarkson recorded 15 goals, 11 assists, and a minus-25 rating.
“David Clarkson has been a 30-goal scorer in the NHL who will bring added character and leadership to our group and we believe he will be a valuable contributor to our team,” Blue Jackets GM Jarmo Kekalainen said in a team release. “While we are excited to welcome David to the Blue Jackets, it is also difficult that Nathan’s time here has ended prematurely due to his injury situation. He is a tremendous person and we wish him and his family all the best in the future.”
Horton, 29, has not played this season due to a severe back injury. The Welland, Ont., native has appeared in 627 career NHL games with the Blue Jackets, Boston Bruins, and Florida Panthers.
Toronto has the option of putting Horton on long-term injury reserve. Horton carries a salary cap hit of $5.3 million after signing a seven-year, $37.1 million deal as a free agent.
According to Sportsnet’s Chris Johnston, the Maple Leafs will not retain any salary in the trade
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