Clifton Karlsson Berard: Metropolitan Notes
Clifton Aims to Reignite Physicality with Penguins
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The Pittsburgh Penguins have acquired defenseman Connor Clifton, a player eager to recapture the hard-hitting, momentum-shifting style that defined his early NHL career. Clifton, who stands at 5’11” and 195 pounds, has consistently been a physical presence on the ice, leading his team in hits for the past three seasons.
Clifton’s Commitment to a Physical Game
Clifton emphasized his desire to return to the aggressive physicality that propelled him to the NHL. “Working to get to the next level, it was always a big part of my game,” Clifton stated. “I feel like I out-competed my way to the NHL with that sort of style, and that’s what’s going to keep me there.”
Over his seven NHL seasons, Clifton has amassed an extraordinary 1,014 hits, alongside 77 points and a plus-43 rating. While acknowledging that his recent two-year stint in Buffalo “put my career at a standstill,” he expressed significant enthusiasm for his new possibility in Pittsburgh.
“The change of scenery, I got that call that I’m going to be a Pittsburgh Penguin, I was really excited for the change,” Clifton shared. “I want to get back to my old self and how I play and the impact that I have on the game.”
Metropolitan Division Notes
Karlsson’s Future with the Penguins Uncertain
Clifton’s new team, temporarily, still includes defenseman Erik Karlsson. Karlsson’s name has been a persistent fixture in trade rumors, despite having two years remaining on his contract. This contractual adaptability offers General Manager Kyle Dubas options.
However, as noted by The Athletic’s Shayna Goldman, Karlsson’s age and the inherent risk of a sudden decline in performance could prompt the Penguins to explore trade options sooner rather than later. Goldman points out that the availability of quality defensemen on the open market is diminishing, while the number of teams with a pressing need for a top-pairing blueliner is also shrinking.
Last season, the offensively gifted Karlsson contributed 11 goals and 53 points for the Penguins. Despite his offensive output,he also experienced defensive breakdowns throughout the season.
Berard Overcame Injury to Make Impact
New York Rangers winger Brett Berard played in 35 games during his rookie campaign last season, with a significant portion of those games being played through a considerable injury. According to USA Today Sports reporter Vince mercogliano, Berard suffered a torn labrum in his fourth game of the season on November 30 and continued to play through the injury for the remainder of the season.
Fortunately, the injury did not necessitate surgery.The offseason layoff has allowed Berard to make a full recovery and be ready for training camp. in his 35 games last season,Berard recorded six goals and 10 points.