The Columbus Blue Jackets weren't the only team interested in acquiring David Clarkson from the Toronto Maple Leafs. 

TSN Hockey Insider Pierre LeBrun wrote on ESPN.com on Friday that the Ottawa Senators also discussed a deal for the veteran winger with their provincial rival.  

LeBrun adds that the Senators tried hard to sign Clarkson when he was a free agent two years ago, but lost out to the Maple Leafs. 

According to LeBrun, the Senators decided this week that the money wouldn't work to acquire Clarkson, who has five years left on his contract at a cap hit of $5.25 million. 

The Leafs sent Clarkson to the Columbus Blue Jackets on Thursday for injured winger Nathan Horton, who has a similar salary and term but could cost nothing on the cap while on long-term injured reserve.