Michael Peca and the Columbus Blue Jackets agreed to terms on 1-year deal.

Columbus spokesman Todd Sharrock said today that Peca must pass a team physical. A formal announcement is expected later this week.

The Rangers refused to meet the deadline imposed by Peca’s agent Don Meehan, making the Blue Jackets the frontrunners for the two-time Selke winner. It’s a relief that Peca was turned away. The Rangers have flirted with their old ways of bringing in veterans with their best years behind them, but have lately opted to favor their prospects, instead.

As it stands, the Blueshirts have deep sets of forwards with a lot of young talent, both NHL-tested and not, ready for the chance to skate at the Garden.

They also have a lot to boast in Jagr, Drury, Gomez, Shanahan, Straka, Avery and Callahan. Rounded out with Betts, Hollweg and Orr.

Without Peca, the chance exists for Dawes, Dubinsky or other prospects to stake their claim to a roster spot. It’s no contest, when given the insurance of the aforesaid big names and proven role-players, that it’s preferable to have a player yet to reach their peak than one who’s career is on its decline.

Maybe Sather didn’t go about breaking the news to Peca in the most gentlemanly way but it was a good, shrewd decision.