Rangers shake up roster as Brett Berard debuts in critical game
- Brett Berard will make his NHL debut after being drafted by the Rangers in 2020.
- Matt Rempe has also been called up to help revitalize the team's lineup.
- These changes come amid growing disappointment with the team's current performance.
In the United States, the New York Rangers are undergoing significant roster changes following a disappointing end to their recent four-game road trip. On Monday night, they will face the St. Louis Blues while introducing Brett Berard, who is making his NHL debut after being drafted 134th overall by the Rangers in 2020. The 22-year-old forward was called up to bring energy to the team after several underperforming games. Alongside Berard, Matt Rempe has also been called up as part of the effort to rejuvenate the Rangers' lineup. Additionally, Chris Kreider will miss the game due to an upper-body injury, leading to increased opportunities for newer players in the lineup. Filip Chytil, who had been previously sidelined with a concussion, is practicing but remains unfit to play, which provides Kaapo Kakko with a chance to play in a center role for the first time in some time. Changes to the lineup also include adjustments in forward pairings, designed to reevaluate and develop promising talent on the ice. Coach Peter Laviolette noted that these changes were a necessity in light of recent disappointing performances from the team. The Rangers continue to face pressure to improve as they aim for a more competitive season ahead.