Moves into Rangers’ Top Six as Stanley Cup Winner Joins the Mix
Brennan Othmann is set to receive a bigger opportunity with the New York Rangers, as the rookie forward practiced alongside Vincent Trocheck and Artemi Panarin on Monday ahead of the team’s three-game road trip in California.
After primarily playing a bottom-six role since being recalled from the AHL’s Hartford Wolf Pack on Feb. 25, Othmann got a brief taste of top-six minutes on Saturday when coach Peter Laviolette shuffled lines in search of an offensive spark. The 22-year-old winger stood out early in the game against Vancouver, earning an assist on Adam Fox’s second-period goal while also making an impact with five hits and strong net-front presence. His efforts contributed to the Rangers’ 5-3 win over the Canucks.
Despite limited ice time—averaging 9:05 TOI in 13 games—Othmann has made his presence felt, particularly with his physical play, aggressive forechecking, and defensive responsibility. However, the former first-round pick (2021) has always been known for his goal-scoring ability. He netted 50 goals in 66 OHL games with Flint in 2021-22 and followed that up with 21 goals as a rookie pro in Hartford last season. This year, he has 12 goals in 27 AHL games, despite missing time due to injury.
Now, skating alongside Panarin (31 goals, 75 points) and Trocheck (20 goals, 49 points), Othmann has an opportunity to showcase his offensive potential at the NHL level. If he can keep up with the Rangers’ top forwards, get to the net, and maintain his defensive reliability, this lineup shift could be a significant step forward in his development.
