Rangers Reassign Brett Berard to AHL Hartford, Recall Bo Groulx

In a surprising roster adjustment, the New York Rangers have sent rookie forward Brett Berard back to the Hartford Wolf Pack of the AHL and recalled center Bo Groulx to take his place. Berard, a popular rookie, was not on the team’s flight to Las Vegas on Friday.

Berard contributed seven points (three goals, four assists) in 19 games after being called up before Thanksgiving. Known for his speed, energy, and offensive spark, he became a versatile asset for the Rangers, often moving across different lines. Recently, he was a fixture on the third line, pairing with Filip Chytil and Will Cuylle, and more recently with Jonny Brodzinski and newcomer Arthur Kaliyev. Although Berard went scoreless in Thursday’s 3-2 overtime win against the New Jersey Devils, he tallied four points (one goal, three assists) in his last six games.

“He plays 100 miles an hour out there,” said Rangers defenseman Braden Schneider after a win over the Boston Bruins. “He’s skating hard, he’s physical, he’s taking things to the net. Guys love the way he plays.”

The decision to reassign Berard could stem from a few factors. Defensively, he has struggled, posting a minus-9 rating in his NHL stint. Additionally, the Rangers may want to experiment with other players. For instance, Matt Rempe could see time on the fourth line, potentially moving Jimmy Vesey to the third line after being scratched against the Devils.

With Filip Chytil sidelined due to an upper-body injury but reportedly traveling with the team, the Rangers may have prioritized adding depth at center. Groulx is expected to serve as an extra forward unless other injuries surface.

The move could also signal the impending return of Chris Kreider, who has missed three games with an upper-body injury and might rejoin the lineup during the western road trip. The recent acquisition of Arthur Kaliyev off waivers adds another wing to the roster, making Berard’s reassignment more practical for the time being.