Othmann, Berard expected to start season in AHL

Per Mollie Walker, Brennan Othmann is expected to start the season in the AHL, and not the Rangers. Vince Mercogliano is saying the same about Brett Berard. While this might seem like it is disappointing news, it is rather expected. The Rangers always shoot themselves in the foot by rushing prospects, and Othmann/Berard represent two of the next three likely NHL forwards with Will Cuylle. Naturally there are more kids in the pipeline, but these three appear to be the most NHL ready at the moment.

With both Othmann and Berard likely starting at the AHL level, barring strong camps and/or injuries, they are able to better adjust to pro hockey from the OHL and NCAA, respectively. If they dominate the AHL this year or there are injuries throughout the season, they will supplant some of the cheaper veterans like Tyler Pitlick and even possibly Nick Bonino to make room on the roster.

This is a big part of the Rangers free agency strategy. Their signings are all easily buried in the AHL if not claimed off waivers. Everything is fluid and things will change from October to December to March to June (hopefully).