Chris Kreider's struggles with the New York Rangers this season have been evident. Just 17 points in 42 games have left the longest-tenured Ranger playing in the bottom six because he's not been the usual top-six forward the Rangers cry out for. His comprehensive struggles were on display yesterday when he had an open net against the Carolina Hurricanes and managed to have his attempt saved. That's not the embarrassing part; his shot went between the goaltender and the far post. It wasn't on target with an open net.
This didn’t go in. He makes 6.5 million a year. pic.twitter.com/QOYNXLNme6
— Blue Line Station (@BlueLineStation) January 29, 2025
Kreider's miss has highlighted his overall struggle this year. While Kreider has never been the best playmaker, he has just two assists on the year—half of Victor Mancini's total, and he has only played 15 games. New York's star talents need to be better than Kreider has been this year to justify their price tags, and the underperforming nature of the Boxford, Massachusetts native leaves the Rangers relying on young guys to replace him.
Fans have theorized that Kreider's struggles may stem from being named in the memo at the start of November alongside Jacob Trouba as a player Chris Drury wanted to move on from. Trouba's gone, and while Kreider does have a 15-team no-trade list, the Rangers managed to get around Trouba's partial trade protection by threatening waivers. No one claims that the Rangers have changed their mind on Kreider, so we'll see where this leads.
Ultimately, Kreider needs to be better. His recent struggles highlight a down period for the entire roster. Kreider is not alone in his ineffectiveness. New York needs more from this member of its leadership core while he dons the iconic Blueshirt on Broadway. Changes are sweeping the league, and Kreider might be moved, but increasing his production is the only way he can fight to retain his place within the Garden.