Berard was traded to the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for William Trudeau.

Berard appeared in 13 games for the New York Rangers, but didn’t appear on the scoresheet during his limited time in the NHL. He had better success at the AHL level where he scored six goals and recorded 22 points in 41 games for the Hartford Wolf Pack. Unless he can impress Rangers management all over again this summer, the undersized winger (5-9, 174 pounds) is likely for another AHL season in 2026-27.

Berard, one of the last cuts in training camp, has earned his way back to the Rangers after recently being called up. He appeared in 17 games for the Hartford Wolf Pack before his recall, posting nine points. Berard struggled a bit out of the gate for Hartford, admittedly flustered by not making the Rangers out of camp. However, he has found his game in recent weeks and is feeling confident in it once again.

Although he has been held without a point in four games of NHL play thus far this season, Berard has shown that he can make an impact on the scoresheet for New York, after having potted half a dozen goals in 35 games played a season ago, even while playing through a shoulder injury. Berard’s impact goes well beyond the scoresheet, however, as he brings a ton of energy and competes every shift.

Berard is entering year three of his entry-level contract and will be looking to build on the strides that he made in 2024-25 when he appeared in 35 games with the Rangers. He posted 10 points while playing the high-energy, agitating game that has become his calling card. Berard does not let his small frame stand in the way of his ability to go hard to the net, to backcheck with abandon, and to be a notable presence on every shift. The winger has an above-average shot, excellent speed, and an infectious personality and work ethic. He has shown the ability to produce points at the NHL level and to carve out a middle-six lineup spot. With proper coaching and development, Berard could become a 20 to 25-goal player at the NHL level within the next few seasons, and looks like a strong bet to lock down a permanent spot in New York in 2025-26.