The Hartford Wolf Pack have shifted highly touted Rangers prospect Brennan Othmann to right wing over the last few games. Considering the Blueshirts log jam on left wing with Artemi Panarin, Chris Kreider, and Will Cuylle, it makes sense to slide him over with the potential opening on the right side for next season.
It’s expected that veteran winger Blake Wheeler, who signed a one-year deal last summer, will not be retained, creating an opportunity for Othmann.
Let’s dive into this further in our latest Hartford Wolf Pack Weekly.
Related: Adam Edstrom earns spot with Rangers; Tyler Pitlick on waivers
Brennan Othmann shifts to right wing
The 21-year-old forward was moved to the right wing in the last four games playing on a line with Brett Berard on the left. They were centered by either Alex Belzile or Karl Henriksson as interim coach Steve Smith looks for the best fit.
Othmann adjusted quickly to playing the right side and has recorded three goals, including two at even strength, much to the delight of his coach.
“We know Othmann has the ability to put pucks in the net,” Smith said. “He’s been snakebit in recent games. It’s been a while since he scored 5 on 5, so it was nice to see him score one.”
For the season, Othmann has 13 goals and 20 assists for 33 points in 40 contests. Not bad for the rookie, who made his Broadway debut in January playing three games.
“Every kid dreams of playing in the NHL,” Othmann noted. “Just to see it come true, not just for me, but for my family. Playing against Chicago in the first game, two Original Six teams, was awesome.”
It won’t be long before the Rangers first-round pick of the 2021 draft is a permanent fixture in the lineup.
Hartford Wolf Pack News and Notes
Inconsistencies remain the ongoing narrative as Hartford split last week’s action, collecting two of a possible four points to hold 4th the Atlantic Division.
As we approach the NHL’s deadline, Hartford is on limited time to right the ship. A potential bolster to the roster may become essential if the Wolf Pack want to have a lengthy playoff run. They currently have a 6 point cushion against the Lehigh Valley Phantoms, who are in 7th in the division and sitting out of a playoff spot. This week features an opportunity to get on a roll for Hartford as they have a three-in-three weekend.
Goaltending Remains Strong
Hartford’s goaltenders have remained consistent throughout the season. Despite Louis Domingue and Dylan Garand occasional struggles, both have bounced back and are giving the Wolf Pack chances to stay in games.
Domingue, 31, has won his last three starts posting a record of 13-5-2. Through 20 games, he has a 2.59 goals against average and a .912 save percentage. The veteran was instrumental in Friday’s game as Bridgeport was pressing throughout the night, but Domingue was often making highlight reel save to bail out the defense.
Garand, 21, continues to keep the Pack in games, but has lost three straight. Through 21 games, he owns an 11-7-3 record with a 2.81 goals against average and a .906 save percentage. While the goalies statistically have decent stats, they’re doing their best to keep Hartford afloat.
Rangers look internally prior to NHL Trade Deadline
As the Rangers have voids to fill for what they hope is a long playoff run, they are turning to internal options before venturing into a sellers’ market at the March 8th trade deadline.
Adam Edstrom, who had not played since December 27th, was called up to the Rangers at the conclusion of Saturday’s game. In his return, Edstrom had a noticeable night as he did not miss a beat. He was strong on the penalty kill, had a few solid hits, and was engaged in all aspects of the game. For a prospect who missed a good chunk of games, he energized the roster and was able to make an impact immediately. It’s not surprise that the Rangers will be keeping him around longer, as Tyler Pitlick was placed on waivers Tuesday.
For Rangers fans, there are also other options to consider, starting with Brett Berard, who is knocking on the door hard to get a look. This season, he’s registered 29 points (14 goals, 15 assists) in 43 games. He has a knack for the net and is not afraid to shoot the puck when there is a chance. Furthermore, he’s got impressive speed.
Another potential option is 34-year old veteran Riley Nash, who is listed as “day to day” and close to returning. Nash came back from an injury on January 19th, but suffered a setback in his first game back. If New York wants a seasoned veteran in a depth role, he could be a fit. Prior to his injuries, Nash was on a roll offensively, collecting 14 points (4 goals, 10 assists) in 12 games.
Matt Rempe, who was also called up with Edstrom, has already been sent back without playing a game. Known for his size and edge, the 21-year-old forward is playing well as of late. In addition to defending his teammates, Rempe has found a little offensive touch. He has experience playing center and recorded 12 points (8 goals, 4 assists) in 43 games.
For defensive options, the Rangers have Connor Mackey and Mac Hollowell, who are both having strong seasons.
Hartford Wolf Pack Schedule
The Wolf Pack will begin 6 games in an 8 day span beginning on Friday.
Friday, February 16th vs Laval Rocket (Montreal) at 7pm, XL Center
- This is the 3rd of 4 meetings in the season series. Hartford is 1-1 against Laval this season. The last meeting will be in Hartford on March 1st.
- Entering the week, Laval is 20-19-4-2 for 46 points. The club is ranked 6th in the North Division and 13th in the Eastern Conference. The Rocket are 5-5 in their last 10 outings. In the last 5 outings, they are 3-2.
- The Rocket have a 3-way tie for the point leader on the active roster. Rookies Joshua Roy and Logan Mailloux have 32 points in addition to veteran Philippe Maillet. Roy has 13 goals and 19 assists in 40 games. Mailloux has 11 goals and 21 assists in 45 games. Maillet has 11 goals and 21 assists in 40 games.
- Laval is currently without their leading scorer, Brandon Gignac who has 42 points.
- Listen – Mixlr. Watch – AHLTV.
Saturday, February 17th vs Bridgeport Islanders (New York) at 7pm, Total Mortgage Arena
- This is the 7th of 10 meetings in the season series. Hartford is 5-1 against Bridgeport.
- Entering the week, Bridgeport is 13-26-5-1 for 32 points. The club is ranked last in the Atlantic Division (8th), Eastern Conference (15th), and league (32nd). Bridgeport is 3-5-1-1 in their last 10 outings and are on a 3 game skid (0-2-0-1).
- Islanders prospect Ruslan Iskhakov leads the club in points with 34. Through 44 games, he recorded 13 goals and 21 assists. Veteran Otto Koivula is second for points with 26. He has 8 goals and 18 assists in 36 games.
- Listen – Mixlr. Watch – AHLTV.
Sunday, February 18th vs Providence Bruins (Boston) at 4:05pm, Amica Mutual Pavilion
- This is the 7th of 10 meetings in the season series. Hartford is 3-2-1 thus far.
- Entering the week, Providence is 29-14-3-2 for 63 points. They are ranked 2nd in the Atlantic Division, Eastern Conference, and league. The Bruins are 8-2 in their last 10 outings.
- Bruins prospect Georgii Merkulov leads the team in points with 43. Through 43 games, the forward has 18 goals and 25 assists. Fabian Lysell is second on the active roster for points with 38. Through 44 games, he has 13 goals and 25 assists.
- Providence is without Anthony Richard, who also has 38 points.
- Listen – Mixlr. Watch – AHLTV.
