The Rangers are making moves, and this latest one adds some intriguing depth to their blue line. After parting ways with Carson Soucy earlier in the week, New York has claimed 23-year-old defenseman Vincent Iorio off waivers from the San Jose Sharks. To make room, the team sent forward Brett Berard back to AHL Hartford.
Let’s break this down.
Iorio isn’t a household name just yet, but he’s a player with potential-and the kind of low-risk, high-upside pickup that makes sense for a team like the Rangers, who appear to be entering a retooling phase ahead of the March trade deadline. Originally a second-round pick by the Capitals in 2021, Iorio spent most of his early pro years developing in the AHL, getting just nine NHL games under his belt before this season.
Washington kept him on the roster to start the year, likely hoping to avoid losing him on waivers. But when they tried to sneak him through, San Jose pounced.
And for a brief stretch, it looked like a smart move. Iorio slotted into the Sharks' lineup and saw regular ice time, though that role didn’t last long.
After some time in the press box, he agreed to a conditioning stint with the AHL Barracuda-and he made the most of it, racking up seven assists in six games.
That stint gave him another shot with the Sharks, and he returned to the NHL lineup in late November. But over the last couple of weeks, he’s been a healthy scratch again.
In total, Iorio logged 21 games this season for San Jose, tallying three assists and 32 blocked shots while averaging 16:30 of ice time per night. Not eye-popping numbers, but solid for a young defenseman still finding his footing.
The Sharks, dealing with a roster crunch as Philipp Kurashev and Shakir Mukhamadullin return from injured reserve (and with Kiefer Sherwood not far behind), had to make a move-and Iorio ended up being the odd man out.
Now, the Rangers get a chance to evaluate him firsthand. With more moves likely on the horizon before the deadline, Iorio gives them a young, cost-controlled option who could earn a longer look.
He’s in the final year of his entry-level deal, which carries a cap hit just north of $814,000, and he’ll be a restricted free agent this summer. It’s a low-risk bet that could pay off if he fits into the team’s future plans-or even just provides stability if other defensemen are moved.
As for Brett Berard, his latest NHL stint was short-lived. The 23-year-old was called up earlier this week and appeared in one game, bringing his season total to 13.
He’s still looking for his first NHL point, but he’s been more productive with the Wolf Pack, putting up six goals and 12 assists in 30 AHL games. With his return to Hartford, he should slide back into a larger role and continue his development.
Bottom line: this is a smart, forward-thinking move by the Rangers. They’re not just shuffling pieces-they’re taking a look at a young player with upside, all while keeping their eyes on the bigger picture.