"Of all the Blue Jackets players set to become unrestricted free agents this summer, winger Vinny Prospal — a sage veteran, with boundless enthusiasm and a surprisingly nimble touch — appeared to have the most value at the NHL trade deadline later this month.

It wouldn't have been surprising if the Blue Jackets, ready to forge a new path after an immensely disappointing season, were to trade Prospal to a club with Stanley Cup aspirations, turning an expiring asset into a future prospect. So it goes in pro sports.

Except that neither the Blue Jackets nor Prospal wanted his time in Columbus to end like this."