The Columbus Blue Jackets managed to steal some thunder at the NHL trade deadline in a deal that could help propel the team to the playoffs for only the second time in franchise history.
The Blue Jackets acquired sniper Marion Gaborik from the New York Rangers in exchange for forward Derek Dorsett, center Derick Brassard, defenseman John Moore and a sixth round draft pick. The 31-year old Gaborik waived his no-trade clause to further the deal, a welcome sign of enthusiasm for the low-profile Jackets. The team also picked up forward Blake Comeau from the Calgary Flames in exchange for a draft pick, and goaltender Michael Leighton from Philadelpia in exchange for goaltender Steve Mason. Mason's standout rookie season played a large part in getting the Jackets to the playoffs in 2009, but his played suffered in ensuing seasons, and the team has settled in comfortably this year in front of former Flyer Sergei Bobrovsky.
