Couple of things to pass along via Columbus Dispatch reporter Aaron Portzline:
First, Blue Jackets GM Scott Howson says he’s not pursuing a goalie right now and that it’s likely Columbus will go into the season with Sergei Bobrovsky and Steve Mason as its net-minding tandem.
Both those guys are coming off disappointing seasons, so it’s a considerable risk for Howson to take. But to be fair, besides Robert Luongo, there aren’t any top goalies available on the trade market or in free agency.
Howson could make, and might’ve already made, a play for Luongo, but it’s not clear whether the latter would waive his no-trade clause to go to Columbus.
Second, Portzline says he’s “been told repeatedly” that Howson has not demanded Chris Kreider, Ryan McDonagh or Derek Stepan when discussing a Rick Nash trade with the New York Rangers.
The Rangers have other prospects like JT Miller, Tim Erixon and Dylan McIlrath that could form part of a package with, say, Brandon Dubinsky and a first-round pick.