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Credit: Danny Wild-Imagn Images
Brett Berard appears to be poised for an opportunity to demonstrate his skills with the New York Rangers in the NHL.
Selected in the fifth round of the 2020 NHL Draft, Berard participated in practice on Sunday, taking on Artemi Panarin’s usual role at left wing alongside Vincent Trocheck and Alexis Lafreniere. Panarin, currently recovering from a lower-body injury sustained during the Rangers’ 5-4 victory over the New Jersey Devils on October 1, skated individually prior to the team’s practice.
While there is no certainty that Berard will keep the same linemates or even be featured in the game when the Rangers commence their season on Wednesday against the Pittsburgh Penguins at PPG Paints Arena, the 22-year-old forward has certainly caught the attention of coach Peter Laviolette. Last season, in his debut year as a professional, Berard led the Hartford Wolf Pack of the American Hockey League with 25 goals.
“He’s been a standout player,” Laviolette mentioned after practice. “He had an impressive season last year, finishing with 20 or 25 goals, which is quite commendable for a rookie.
The Rangers still have a few decisions to finalize before the opening night, and it’s possible Berard could be assigned to Hartford, particularly if Panarin is fit to play on Wednesday. However, Laviolette expressed his satisfaction with Berard’s performance thus far.
“He has a chance to come in and demonstrate his abilities,” he stated, “Even if it’s just during practices, it’s important for him to keep showing what he can do because we like what we’ve observed.”
Related: Rangers place Matthew Robertson on waivers, assign Connor Mackey to Hartford
Rangers aim for Brennan Othmann to enhance his consistency
Danny Wild-Imagn Images
Rookie forward Brennan Othmann participated in all six preseason games without hindering his NHL prospects. Nevertheless, the Rangers want their 2021 first-round pick to gain more playing time, prompting them to assign him to Hartford on Saturday.
This decision doesn’t reflect disappointment in his performance.
“I believe he had a solid camp,” Laviolette commented. “In several games, I thought he made an impact. Last year was a good first year for him.”
However, Laviolette emphasized that Othmann needs to focus on improving his consistency. The Rangers believe he will benefit from playing more minutes in the AHL instead of a limited role on the fourth line in the NHL.
“When it comes to making the leap to being a regular player, finding that consistency is key,” he explained. “As a young player, that consistency within your game often requires attention. He arrived in great shape, which is encouraging. He had some strong moments, too, and the fact that he can play on both sides is a plus.”
“Ultimately, from a development perspective, I think going down there, taking on significant minutes, and playing in various situations will facilitate his growth to return to this level. It’s essential for him to achieve consistency within his game as well.”
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The Miller-Fox Partnership Might Form the Primary Defensive Pair
K’Andre Miller — Dennis Schneidler-Imagn Images
Ryan Lindgren’s upper-body injury, which has kept him out of action, might lead Coach Laviolette to pair his most skilled offensive defensemen together.
In the Rangers’ preseason finale against the New York Islanders, Miller took over Lindgren’s position on the left during the first half. This pairing proved effective, as Fox scored a goal and provided an assist, while Miller contributed with assists on both of the Rangers’ goals.
Although Laviolette rearranged the defense pairs in the second half, he noted that this change was premeditated. Notably, Miller and Fox practiced together on Sunday, and there’s a strong possibility they will play together again on Wednesday.
Laviolette praised Miller, stating, “I consider him one of our top defensemen. He handles the hardest minutes and competes against the best players. His skating ability, puck-moving skills, and defensive capabilities are all excellent. He excels in a variety of areas.”
“He contributes significantly to our team already. We hope to see him continue to grow in that role. We are pleased with his performance, and further development would be fantastic.”
Last season, Miller ranked second on
Following their defeat against the Islanders, the preseason record stands at 4-2-0, a game where they were largely outplayed. However, Laviolette expressed confidence on Sunday that his team is prepared for the upcoming season.
“I believe so,” he responded when asked if the Rangers are set for the new season. “We’ve checked many boxes and covered various aspects.”
In the time remaining before the regular season begins, the team intends to refine several elements.
“We have one more day of practice. We’ll conduct walkthroughs in the video room as well. We’re still putting in the effort, and while we’ve completed many of our objectives, our preparations have been ongoing since the start of training camp. We aim to ensure that we’re ready for Game 1. While it’s always desirable to have a bit more time, I feel we’re in a solid position considering the time that remains.”
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Expectations and Opportunities: Brett Berard Prepares for Potential Role with the Rangers as Regular Season Approaches
Overview of Brett Berard’s Journey
Brett Berard, a promising young left wing, is making headlines as he prepares for the upcoming NHL season with the New York Rangers. After showing impressive skills in preseason games, Berard is positioning himself for a potential regular-season role. This article delves into his background, the opportunities ahead, and what fans can expect from this rising star.
Brett Berard’s Background
- Early Life and Development: Growing up in Rhode Island, Berard developed a passion for hockey early on. His dedication to the sport led him through various youth leagues, culminating in a standout career at the collegiate level.
- College Hockey Success: Berard played for Providence College, where he showcased his scoring ability and playmaking skills. His collegiate performance caught the attention of NHL scouts, leading to his selection by the Rangers.
Current Status and Preseason Performances
As the Rangers gear up for the 2024 regular season, Berard has made a strong impression during the preseason. His agility on the ice, combined with a keen sense for the game, has put him in a favorable position as the roster decisions loom. In a recent game against the Islanders, Berard demonstrated his skills by skating effectively with the puck and creating scoring opportunities for his teammates [[1](https://nypost.com/2024/09/25/sports/brett-berard-looking-to-make-strong-impression-with-rangers-stock-rising/)].
Expectations for the 2024 Regular Season
The expectations surrounding Brett Berard are high, and rightly so. Here are some key areas where he is expected to excel:
- Offensive Contributions: With a strong scoring touch, Berard is anticipated to add depth to the Rangers’ offense. His ability to find the back of the net will be crucial, especially in close games.
- Defensive Reliability: Beyond scoring, Berard has shown he can contribute defensively, which is vital for a team looking to balance offensive and defensive play.
- Adaptability: Berard’s versatility allows him to play in various forward positions, providing the coaching staff with options as they navigate roster changes throughout the season.
Benefits of Having Brett Berard on the Roster
Integrating Berard into the Rangers’ lineup offers several advantages:
- Youth and Energy: Berard brings youthful energy to the roster, which can invigorate the team and inspire veteran players.
- Team Chemistry: His ability to connect with teammates, along with his willingness to learn, contributes positively to the overall team chemistry.
- Fan Engagement: As a rising star, Berard has the potential to engage fans and enhance the team’s popularity, which is beneficial both on and off the ice.
Practical Tips for Fans to Support Brett Berard
Fans play an important role in a player’s success. Here are some tips for supporters looking to rally behind Brett Berard:
- Attend Games: Show your support by attending Rangers games, especially during the early season as Berard looks to establish himself.
- Engage on Social Media: Follow Berard on social media platforms to stay updated and share encouraging messages.
- Wear Rangers Gear: Donning Rangers merchandise not only supports the team but also boosts player morale.
Case Studies of Young Players Making Impacts
Looking at examples from previous seasons, several young players have successfully transitioned into regular contributors in the NHL:
Case Study: Adam Fox
Adam Fox, like Berard, was a younger player who entered the league with high expectations. His ability to quickly adapt and make significant contributions on both ends of the ice led to his recognition as one of the premier defensemen in the league.
Case Study: Alexis Lafrenière
Another recent example is Alexis Lafrenière, who, after being drafted first made immediate impacts on the Rangers roster. His offensive skill set and ability to perform under pressure illustrate the potential Berard has as he steps into a similar role.
First-Hand Experiences from Coaches and Players
Feedback from coaches and teammates can provide insight into Berard’s character and potential. Coaches often highlight his work ethic and commitment to improvement, which bode well for his future:
- Coaching Staff Comments: The coaching staff has praised Berard’s dedication during training camps, noting his willingness to take feedback and apply it on the ice.
- Teammate Testimonials: Fellow players have mentioned Berard’s positive attitude and ability to uplift the team spirit, which is crucial in a long season.
Projected Lineup and Role
As the Rangers finalize their roster for the regular season, predicting Berard’s placement becomes essential:
| Position | Suggested Line Combinations | Possible Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Left Wing | Berard on Line 2 with established forwards | Potential for increased scoring opportunities |
| Right Wing | Berard filling in during injuries | Flexibility to adapt and contribute |
| Power Play | Utilized in man-advantage situations | Opportunity to score and build confidence |
Conclusion
As Brett Berard prepares for the Rangers’ regular season, the anticipation surrounding his role continues to grow. With high expectations, valuable skills, and a supportive fan base, Berard has the potential to make significant contributions to the team’s success. Hockey fans are encouraged to keep a close eye on his development and performance throughout the season.
