Blue Jackets close to signing Ryan Malone? Wild and Canucks in mix **UPDATE** Malone sets the record straight

The Columbus Dispatch's sources are saying that the Jackets are trying to make a trade to the Penguins for the negotiating rights to Malone, who will become a UFA July 1.
The paper's sources are also saying that Minnesota and Vancouver are in the running. Malone in Vancouver? I'm in!

**UPDATE**

The Jackets story is apparently untrue. Malone told WTAE TV in Pittsburgh that

"It's UFA for sure."

As for the Columbus rumor, Malone said:

"If Columbus was smart they wouldn't make the trade"

Wow. End of story. Malone will take the highest bid after July 1. Those are his intentions. Malone also stated that Pittsburgh "never made him a real offer."
After a 27-goal 51 point season in 77 games and a good playoff run playing with the likes of Crosby, what is Malone's fair value? Surely his numbers will drop and someone is going to overpay this guy.

T Tags: Ryan+Malone+to+Blue+Jackets Ryan+Malone+to+Canucks trade