Bernier Still Hoping to Be Traded
Lombardi has indicated to Bernier’s camp that he will give him a chance to play elsewhere. There is a sentimental attachment here as Bernier was the first draft pick Lombardi made as Kings GM in 2006. Still with that said, Bernier is the Kings only real major asset they’re willing to part with.
The Toronto maple leafs are certainly an option should they fail to land Luongo in a trade. Lombardi has indicated privately there’s a specific player on the Maple Leafs roster he wants in return for Bernier. While he won’t reveal who the player is, it’s safe to suggest Toronto isn’t willing to part with him, at least for now.
Other teams such as Tampa Bay, Columbus, and New Jersey have kicked the tires on Bernier at one time or another. New Jersey GM Lou Lamiorello would love to get his hands on Bernier with the idea of replacing Martin Brodeur in a few years. The Devils ended up signing both Brodeur and Johan Hedberg to two-year deals last summer.