Hockey Trade Rumors

Bernier worth a look

The Sabres would be wise to check the price tag for Kings backup Jonathan Bernier, who makes $1.25 million and will become a restricted free agent after this season.

Bernier has a 2.34 GAA and a .913 save percentage in 46 games in the last three years while playing behind Jonathan Quick. He has won four straight to help the Kings’ resurgence this year, allowing only four goals and stopping 92 of 96 shots.

The Kings aren’t in a hurry to trade him, but they need a defenseman with Willie Mitchell and Matt Greene sidelined indefinitely with injuries. The Sabres have too many defensemen, need a dependable backup and should consider life after Ryan Miller.

Miller’s five-year contract worth $31.25 million expires after next season, when he becomes an unrestricted free agent. They shouldn’t be surprised if he tests the open market in search of a team that will contend for the Stanley Cup. Miller has a career 2.58 GAA and .915 save percentage.

If they acquired Bernier, they would have an asset in Miller. It would give them the option to trade him, with his approval, before losing him for nothing.