The New York Rangers received a double dose of good news as it pertains to top prospect Brennan Othmann on Friday. First, the 21-year-old forward returned and played his first game after a two-month injury absence for Hartford of the American Hockey League. Second, Othmann picked up an assist, albeit in a 5-2 loss to Springfield.
Othmann sustained an upper-body injury in the third AHL game of the season, Oct. 19 against Bridgeport. The recovery process took much longer than expected. But there were good signs in his return.
He picked up a secondary assist on Bo Groulx’s goal at 19:52 of the first period that tied the game 1-1. Othmann now has six points (two goals, four assists) in four games this season.
Othmann also had three shots on goal Friday and was assessed two minor penalties. He was sent off at 3:20 of the third period for hooking. Then he and Hunter Skinner were assessed coincidental minors for slashing at 8:03. So, it didn’t take long for Othmann’s feisty nature to shine through.
His return is a boost for the entire organization. He’s one of Hartford’s best and most important players, coming off a 21-goal season as a rookie pro in 2023-24. And Othmann could be an option to be recalled by the Rangers if their disappointing play persists.
Brennan Othmann could wind up in NHL with Rangers this season
Had he not sustained that upper-body injury, there’s a good chance that Othmann would have been recalled by the Rangers already this season. The 2021 first-round pick got a long look in training camp, playing in every preseason game. Though sent down to Hartford, it appeared that Othmann set himself up to be one of the first players called back up when there was a need.
Instead, Brett Berard got that call. The 22-year-old forward has two goals and an assist in 12 games, playing up and down the lineup.
The Rangers have a permanent hole to fill on the third line after Kaapo Kakko was traded last week to the Seattle Kraken. Berard is there now, but it’s easy to envision Othmann in that spot next to Filip Chytil and Will Cuylle once he’s fully back in game shape.
Othmann could also get some top-six playing time in New York at some point. Chris Kreider was scratched Monday against the New Jersey Devils and is rumored to be on the trading block. Reilly Smith’s play hasn’t inspired confidence that’s he’s an answer this season. And even Alexis Lafreniere is mired in a terrible slump now.
So, why not Othmann?
The Rangers (16-17-1) need a spark, having lost 13 of their past 17 games. Berard has provided some with his energetic play. It’s not farfetched to imagine Othmann doing the same in the near future.
For now, he’s getting his legs back and ramping back up with the Wolf Pack, which is a big step in the right direction for one of New York’s key prospects.
