New York Rangers: Chris Kreider and the upcoming decision
By Jim Madden
NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 21: New York Rangers Left Wing Chris Kreider (20) takes the puck out from behind the net during the third period of a regular season NHL game between the Calgary Flames and the New York Rangers on October 21, 2018, at Madison Square Garden in New York, NY. (Photo by David Hahn/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
The case to extend Kreider
Many feel that Kreider could be the next Ranger to wear the captain’s “C” on his uniform since he brings so much to the lineup and locker room for a young team without a clear-cut leader in that role. Kreider has shown consistent ability in driving results of the line he is featured on. He could also play a role to help shoulder the load as Chytil transitions as the team’s second-line center.
As much as Kreider has taken considerable heat over his disappearing acts during past seasons, much of that heat comes from the Rangers lack of of consistent scoring. With Panarin and the potential of Kaako and Kravtsov, the new offensive makeup may take the pressure and spotlight off Kreider. Should one of the young guns need to go down for some seasoning, or as a hedge against injury, having seven top-six forwards can be worthwhile luxury to carry.
The key that determines how long Kreider stays in New York is realistically up to him. While it’s difficult to imagine Kreider offering the Rangers a term discount it appears that is the only palatable scenario for the Rangers. All spending aside this is clearly a term of contract issue and this clearly rests with Kreider’s camp.