Canadiens-Rangers trade could produce a surprise at training camp
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In the race for the Montreal Canadiens’ 13th forward spot, one name could shake things up.
The name may not mean much to Canadiens fans.
Yet Berard has 48 games of NHL experience, including 13 with New York last season.
That’s where his biggest advantage lies.
Against younger players who are only beginning to break through, like Florian Xhekaj, his “experience” at the highest level could make the difference.
Fast and hard-working, he could also bring a good dose of energy in a limited role.
There is still one major obstacle in his way.
At 5-foot-9, Berard doesn’t bring the physicality the club has been looking for since the start of the summer.
Canadiens’ trade with Rangers puts Berard in 13th-forward battle with Xhekaj and Beck
He’ll also have to beat out Florian Xhekaj and Owen Beck, two other candidates for the job.
A 13th forward, after all, mainly has to be ready to step into the lineup at any moment.
Berard enters the race from behind, but his experience could open a door.
It’ll be up to him to take advantage of it at camp.
A trade between the Canadiens and Rangers could end up being surprisingly useful.
As a reminder, he was acquired in June in exchange for young Quebec-born defenseman William Trudeau.
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Canadiens-Rangers trade could produce a surprise at training camp
Does Brett Berard deserve the Canadiens’ 13th forward spot despite his small size?