Columbus ships R.J. Umberger to Flyers, acquire Scott Hartnell

The Columbus Blue Jackets found a trade partner for R.J. Umberger, sending Umberger and a fourth round pick to the Philadelphia Flyers for Scott Hartnell, Aaron Portzline of the Columbus-Disptch reports.

Umberger, 32, demanded a trade out of Columbus. Although Hartnell had somewhat of a down year in 2013-2014, 20 goals – 52 points, this is a clear win for the Blue Jackets.

Umberger has been a fading player and the biggest concern has been his body breaking down. He’s dealing with a bad back that isn’t likely to improve into his mid-30’s.

Umberger has three years left on his deal with a $4.6 million cap hit. Hartnell, 32, has five years left on his deal with a $4.75 million cap hit.

The Flyers get rid of the longer term deal but Columbus gets the much more impact player for the next three years that Umberger was under contract for. Columbus also becomes tougher to play against, joining the likes of Brandon Dubinsky and a healthy Nathan Horton.

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