Rising from the Wolf Pack: A November Tale of Triumphs and Tough Lesson
Explore the highs and lows of the New York Rangers' AHL affiliate, the Hartford Wolf Pack, as they navigate a challenging November and turn to December.
By Marvin Azrak
The Hartford Wolf Pack wrapped up November with some severe highs and lows. Dealing with injuries and a coaching change, they went with a solid 7-2-2 record right away under interim head coach Steve Smith. The team has been through a lot, but they show natural resilience and character, especially considering their recent struggles.
Brennan Othmann stole the show in a recent sweep against the Lehigh Valley Phantoms (Philadelphia Flyers). He had a hat trick and dished out an assist in a 7-3 win. The next day wasn't any less exciting, with a 5-4 comeback win where Othmann continued to shine. However, as their parent club showed, only some weeks can be a total win. They hit a tough patch this week, falling short against the Cleveland Monsters (Blue Jackets affiliate) 4-3 in overtime and a rematch against Laval Rocket (Canadiens affiliate), losing 5-1 on Saturday to snap their eight-game point streak after a 4-3 shootout win Friday. Still, they hold a pretty impressive 15-5-3 record, in the second spot in the Atlantic Division.
Emerging Stars and Veteran Leadership: Hartford Wolf Pack's November and early December Saga:
Othmann, a rookie sensation, is making a name for himself. After a dry spell, he's back in action, putting up points in four of the last five games. He's got 19 points (9 goals, 10 assists) in 23 games.
Before Jonny Brodzinski got called to the Rangers, he led the AHL in points with 25 points (11 goals, 14 assists) in 16 games. His leadership and impact have been tremendous since the 2020-21 season, and it's clear he's doing everything you'd want from a captain.
Now, Riley Nash, the 34-year-old summer signing, is finding his groove. Before being called up on Saturday instead of Barclay Goodrow, he had nine goals and ten assists in 23 games. That's solid. He's even ranked 31st in the whole AHL for production.
Matt Rempe, the youngest forward on the squad, might not be the top scorer, but he's making his mark. He scored a crucial game-winner and is fearless in getting scrappy on the ice when needed.
They've bagged 23 goals with the man advantage. Othmann and Nash are doing their thing, and on the defensive side, Mac Hollowell and Robertson are holding it down.
Penalty kill? No problem. Hartford's of the league elite. Against the Phantoms, they killed off 8 of 10 penalties and even snagged a short-handed goal. The defense game is strong!
Adam Sykora, the 19-year-old forward, is picking up steam. He had a 4-point night against the Phantoms, showing off his speed and stick-handling skills. Keep an eye on this guy; he's just getting started.
As we roll into the second half of the season, it's all about the Wolf Pack's resilience, the standout performances, and keeping that special team magic alive. Let's see where the Pack takes us!