Bryan Berard

Finally, it is here. The newest NIR. Enjoy.


Bryan Berard was signed by the Isles on 10/9/07, after coming to training camp on a try-out. This late pick-up could really help us this year.


Bryan was drafted #1 overall by Ottawa in the 1995 Entry Draft. Ironically, he never played a game with the Senators. The Isles traded their pick; Wade Redden, and recieved Berard in return.



Berard was on the Island from 1996 to 1999, scoring 26 goals and 83 assists in 188 games played. He was then traded to the Maple Leafs, where he would experience the worst thing that could happen to him.



In a game against Ottawa on March 11, 2000, Marian Hossa was attempting to make a shot right in front of Berard. Hossa's stick sailed just over the puck, leaving the follow-through to go right into Berard's right eye. In the hospital, Berard was told that he might lose his eye. Right after that, he said that he would play hockey once again. After seven eye surguries and some special contacts, he would have the chance to make a return to the NHL. The Rangers signed him as a free agent 10/5/01, and that would mark his return to the NHL.



He would play a full season with the Rangers, scoring 2 goals and 21 assists. His next year, he played with the Bruins, scoring 10 goals and 28 assists in 80 games. He was on the Blackhawks the next season, and he had his best year. He scored 13 goals and 34 assists in only 58 games. He would move to Columbus to play two seasons. In those 55 games, he scored 12 goals and 23 assists.

I feel like I've said it for everyone, but BB plays a big role on this year's Isles team. We were desperate for a PP QB, and now we have him. I'll ask 6 goals and 21 assists from him this year. Not much, but to me it's enough.


Let's Go Isles!!!