The life of Bryan

Sporting News, The, Dec 14, 1998 by L.W.

When he dazzled the NHL with his great offensive skills from defense, he was named Rookie of the Year in 1996-97. Last year, he had more points, but he was criticized for having a plus-minus rating of minus 32.

What to do?

Bryan Berard got himself in the best shape in his life in the off-season and came in prepared to please everyone.

"Last year was a tough year," he says. "I think I learned that coach (G.M.-coach Mike Milbury) wants me to be more responsible in rushing the puck."

But now he's getting mixed signals.

Milbury says he wants Berard to be more aggressive and pick his spots. However, others in management want him to play it safe more.

Berard would be willing to forego a bonus, that raises his salary from $1.25 million to $1.4 million if he gets 60 points, and be the kind of defenseman his team wants.

But that, apparently, has yet to be mutually determined.