Rangers assign Brett Berard to Hartford as roster reinforcements loom

The New York Rangers recalled Brett Berard from the Hartford Wolf Pack just under a week ago, and at the time it looked like it would be another opportunity for him to prove he belonged in the NHL. Fast forwarding to today's news of his assignment back to the AHL, and it becomes clear that the team wanted insurance while a bug was floating through the team.

Brett Berard returns to Hartford where he returns to top six

Berard last played for the Rangers on December 15th and it was his 11th game of the season which saw him tally zero points. He was assigned to Hartford and recalled shortly after, but didn't get into any additional game action.

Berard has appeared in 19 games for Hartford this season and has just two goals and seven assists for nine points. Last season he got off to a hot start with nine goals and 14 assists for 23 points in his first 30 games and never returned to the AHL after his promotion. He failed to make a significant impact in training camp this year, and his roster spot was claimed by veteran Conor Sheary.

At this point it would make sense for the Rangers to leave Berard in the AHL for the rest of the season unless he's going to get consistent minutes in the NHL. This is a crucial point in his career for developing, and there's time for him to get back on track. The most important thing if for him to find a role, dominate at it, and remain consistent from game to game. He's only 23, and there's time for him to have a great rest of the season in the AHL, and then put himself into a position to compete for a spot next season.

What this move means for Adam Fox

Fox is getting closer to a return, and has taken the next step in his progression as he looks to return to the lineup. On Saturday Mike Sullivan said, "he's getting there", and that would appear to be true as he's skating in practice in a regular jersey. It is likely that he will use this as an opportunity to see how he feels, and I imagine he will miss Monday's game, and return on Wednesday against the Washington Capitals.