Bergfors split last season between Atlanta and Florida, recording 36 points (12G, 24A) in 72 games, which was a step down from the 44 points (21 G, 23A) he recorded in 2009-10, his rookie year. Now with Nashville, his fourth team in the past three seasons, Bergfors will likely open the season as the Preds' third line right winger with Patric Hornqvist and Martin Erat ahead of him on the depth chart. That said, Bergfors did finish fourth among NHL rookies two seasons ago, and turned some heads by scoring six goals in his first eight games with Atlanta after arriving in the Ilya Kovalchuk deal. With the Preds desperate for any additional scoring punch they can find, if Bergfors makes the most of his limited opportunities early on, don't be surprised if coach Barry Trotz finds a way to work him into more of a top-six role as the season progresses.
Following a season which saw him get named to the NHL’s All-Rookie team, Bergfors holds a lot of promise heading into his sophomore year. After being acquired from New Jersey in a deal which saw the departure of cornerstone Ilya Kovalchuk, Bergfors posted an impressive 17 points in the last 27 games of the season for the Thrashers for an overall solid rookie campaign (21 G, 23 A). He should continue to see time on Atlanta’s top line with Bryan Little and Nik Antropov. Couple that with the overall improvements the team has made and Bergfors should stay consistent in 2010. Slot him in for 25 goals and over 50 points.
Bergfors is a player the Devils have high hopes for, but he hasn't impressed in the limited opportunities he's been given at the NHL level. He'll have a shot to make the team out of training camp and could be a nice two-way player.
Bergfors is still considered one of the better offensive prospects in the New Jersey system, but we keep waiting to see that potential. The small winger had just 27 points in 66 games with Lowell (AHL). Bergfors made the big club out of training camp, but played only one game before nicking up his shoulder. If he sees NHL ice this season, he won't do much. Those in keeper leagues should look elsewhere for prospects.
One of the team's few offensive prospects, Bergfors was assigned to the AHL out of camp but could see some action if anyone in the big club suffers an injury.
