Columbus and Philadelphia are swapping veteran wingers.
The Blue Jackets began the wheeling and dealing of the NHL offseason Monday, sending left wing R.J. Umberger and a fourth-round pick in the 2015 NHL Draft to Philadelphia in exchange for left wing Scott Hartnell.
"He is a talented, tough, hard-working player who brings valuable experience and leadership on and off the ice. We believe he will fit in very well with our group and be an important part of our team moving forward," general manager Jarmo Kekalainen said of Hartnell.
The 32-year-old Hartnell has notched 250 career goals in 13 NHL seasons, the first six with the Nashville Predators, after being drafted by them with the sixth overall pick, then the last seven with the Flyers.
In the 2013-14 campaign, Hartnell played in 78 games, totaling 20 goals, 32 assists and a +/- of 11.
Umberger started his career with Philadelphia before spending the past six seasons with the Jackets. He had 18 goals, 16 assists and 26 penalty minutes last season.
"We would also like to thank R.J. for his years of service to our club and extend our best wishes to him and his family," Kekalainen said.
Kekalainen will have more action ahead with the Jackets holding the No. 16 overall pick in the NHL draft coming up Friday.
