He is one of several young forwards hoping to secure a place on the New York Rangers’ roster for the 2025-26 season, and recent developments indicate he’ll be in a much better position to compete this fall.
Ahead of Thursday’s Shoulder Check Showcase in Stamford,he spoke with media and provided a positive update on his health.
He made his NHL debut this past season on November 25 in a 5-2 loss to the St. Louis Blues, registering an assist in just over 11 minutes of ice time. He followed that performance by scoring in the next game against the Carolina Hurricanes, but was held off the scoresheet in the final two games of the month. Still new to the roster at that point, Berard was likely pushing through injury in hopes of securing his place—though, in hindsight, it may not have been the wisest move.
He went on to appear in 35 NHL games, posting 6 goals and 4 assists while averaging 10:43 of ice time per game. Berard had a breakout rookie year with the Hartford Wolf Pack in 2023-24, finishing with 25 goals and 23 assists over 71 games, and adding 6 points in 10 playoff appearances.
Before his NHL call-up this season, the 22-year-old winger notched 9 goals and 14 assists in 30 games with the Wolf Pack. Despite his modest 5-foot-9, 174-pound frame, Berard plays with grit and intensity, always looking to make a difference.
The encouraging news is that surgery wasn’t necessary to address his injury. Looking ahead, there’s optimism that a fully healthy Berard could elevate his game even further in the upcoming season. At times he appeared overmatched, but considering he was adjusting to NHL play while nursing an injury, some of those struggles are understandable.
