Brett is a ‘B+’ rated prospect on our 2020 NHL Draft April rankings for Left Wings. This is the scouting report that shows why we believe Brett has what it takes to be an NHL player.
Brett Berard (4.25 Star Amateur Rating, NHL Grade — B+) Forward
Updated Comments in BOLD
(1) Brain – Brett is smart, crafty and his hockey sense causes issues for the opposition. He can create in 1 on 1 situations or by using his brain for a quick 2 on 1. When I say this I do not mean that he tries to dangle through a defender’s feat or look pretty doing a toe drag at the blue line. I mean that he has the brains to protect the puck, spin off gaps or close containment and he sets up his line mates to be used as picks or he is more than willing to become a pick himself. He is very aware of his line mates spacing and understands when close support is the best option or when vanishing to the weak side will create the best opportunities. Defensively, he has a very active stick that shuts down passing / shooting lanes quickly without putting himself at risk of exposing open areas. In the neutral zone he understands the importance of playing the lines and cutting the ice in half. Brett plays on the edge, but has a advanced feel for what the officials will allow and therefore rarely is reckless. As the son of a Division 1 Head Coach (David Berard/Holy Cross) it is obvious that Brett has spent time talking hockey with his Father, his coaching staff or his players. He processes the game quickly and cleanly while having great anticipation. Brett is excellent at creating space through subtle picks and interference. His linemates will have time to attack the net off of the cycle.
(2) Vision & Poise – He plays with his head up and his eyes moving. He understands that possession of the puck matters and wants to keep it. He looks to create quick transition on turnovers, but at the same time can feel pressure and will delay looking for the second wave of attackers. When Brett receives a breakout pass he will move his feet to create passing lanes or carry the puck until the right play becomes available. Brett has a very smooth first touch. When he receives rocket passes or bouncing pucks he settles them effortlessly with his head up. This allows him to the extra split second that he will need to be a successfull pro.
(3) Feet – He has strong edges, a quick first step and although he may not be a straight line burner, Brett has the ability to beat you with his feet. He is incredibly agile and quick laterally. Brett is a nightmare for large defenders who have to rely on their size as the only way to shut down the cycle.
(4) Compete & Effort – We only note extremes and Brett is a maximum effort player. In his mind he should win 100% of 50-50 pucks or battles. He loves to compete. Brett is a gamer who wants to win.
(5) Contact or Physicality – Brett does not have the size to be a banger, but don’t tell him that. He looks to create and enjoys physical confrontations. He is very involved in that aspect of the game. Brett uses his strong edges and balance to not only roll off of contact, but to initiate contact while he is the puck carrier.
(6) Release – He has very quick hands and settles pucks smoothly while at top speeds or in awkward positions. He shoots while his feet are moving and can easily fire pucks between defenders legs for screened shots. Brett’s vision is an asset while shooting through a defender’s legs. He recognizes when they are leaning or about to pivot and uses them as a screen. His release is quick and unpredictable.
(7) One Timer Ability – Brett uses a nice fat stick blade and he can use any part of it to one time bouncing pucks or poor passes. He might not have a cannon now, but we firmly believe that his ability to shoot pucks will be an asset when he turns pro. He has an expanded shooting area that allows him to hit the net from anywhere inside of the house.
(8) Body Language – He plays like a punk. He yaps. He is in your face. He tells the refs that he’s being bullied and after he draws a penalty he laughs at you on the way to the bench. We’re not going to lie… it’s entertaining and we love it. Amen. He’s an antagonist and he’s very good at getting under his opponents skin. There is little doubt that he will get booed when playing on the road.
(9) Special Teams Potential – Brett has the poise, puck skills and confidence to be a goal line option on the first power play or play the top of the umbrella on a 5 on 3 situation. He will be a consistent power play option in professional hockey and he will put up points. He is a player who will be looked on to produce. We feel Brett has the skating ability and anticipation to be a high level penalty killer in professional hockey.
(10) Intangibles – Brett has a swagger. He came into the year with something to prove and he is proving it. He bangs, he yaps, he works his ass off defensively and he gets on the score sheet. He is involved in every aspect of each and every game. He is a player that younger players will want to play like. We said it before, he will get booed on the road yet those same fans will wish he was on their team.