From Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch:
The Dispatch has confirmed that [Blue Jackets GM Scott] Howson has inquired with Los Angeles Kings GM Dean Lombardi regarding Kings goaltender Jonathan Bernier, who has asked to be traded in the wake of a 10-year contract signed by Jonathan Quick, the Conn Smythe Trophy winner and the Kings’ clear No. 1.
That Columbus expressed interest in Bernier shouldn’t come as a surprise. Yes, Howson already has Steve Mason and Sergei Bobrovsky on the books -- but Howson also said after acquiring Bobrovsky that he wanted more NHL-caliber depth in goal.
It’s also not surprising Howson got a hold of Lombardi, as the two paired up to consummate the Jeff Carter-for-Jack Johnson deal just prior to February’s trade deadline.
That proved to be a solid move on the part of Howson. Johnson thoroughly enjoys being a Blue Jacket -- the polar opposite of Carter -- and said being in Columbus is “great”.
The Blue Jackets also get L.A.'s first-round pick in 2013.