Brett Berard was participating in his fourth NHL game when he sustained an injury that left him with torn lips extending to his shoulders.
Describing the incident as a “normal hit” that occurred during the Rangers’ 4-3 victory against the Canadiens at Madison Square Garden on November 30, Berard commented before gearing up for the Shoulder Check Showcase last week. He missed only three games following the injury and went on to play in 31 games, concluding early in April.
“I’ve been around for a week or so, and, you know, you’re in the NHL working for something you care about,” Berard mentioned regarding the injury. “I felt I was really playing well, so losing that chance was tough. So, I tried to play through it.”
This was Berard’s journey from being a longshot 22-year-old draft pick (134th overall in 2020) to making an impact on the team’s depth chart. The Rangers were experiencing a rough patch, with a losing streak of five games, coinciding with frustrations expressed by President and General Manager Chris Drury, who was seeking trade opportunities for the team’s captain and longest-tenured player.
Berard’s recall aimed to inject some energy into the squad; at the time, he was Hartford’s top scorer, and his addition was seen as a potential spark for the team.
It certainly was a tough situation for the rookie, but Berard embraced it with a mix of excitement and patience. It felt like a return to the AHL, which was followed by a fluctuating presence in the Rangers’ lineup as the season wound down.
No one could completely reverse the Rangers’ struggles, yet Berard gave the impression he might be positioning himself for a legitimate shot at a roster spot come training camp.
“I’m confident. I feel good about my chances,” he said regarding the upcoming season. “Honestly, I try not to dwell on who’s where on the roster; that’s not productive. It’s about making the most of the opportunities you get.”
Planning to fully prepare for training camp, Berard anticipated competing for a spot, along with teammates Brennan Osmann and Gabe Perot.
Competition might be tight, especially with the addition of veterans like Taylor Radish and Connor Cearly.
Even with the pressure, Berard’s skill set seems to align well with the style of play that the new head coach, Mike Sullivan, is expected to implement.
The Rhode Island native recorded six goals in 35 games with the Rangers last season, totaling 10 points and a minus-six rating. Still, it was his energy and speed that resonated most positively with the Rangers.
This summer, while recovering from his shoulder injury, Berard aimed to gain weight and spent his offseason training with NHL players at Prentiss Hockey Performance in Stamford, Connecticut.
As he prepared for a new coaching staff at training camp, he noted, “You can really only get one opportunity,” emphasizing the need for consistent effort.
“I’ve had a couple of conversations with Sullivan, just passing through the gym,” Berard shared. “He seems amazing. I’m excited to work with him. I’ve heard nothing but good things. For me, it’s all about playing confidently while combining speed, energy, tenacity, and my hockey instincts.”
“I’m really looking forward to this year. I could feel the momentum last season; it may sound cliché, but I’m hungrier than ever. Coming back in September is something I’m eager about. It should be a lot of fun.”
