Chris Kreider, the longest-tenured member of the New York Rangers, finds himself as a healthy scratch for the team's game against the New Jersey Devils on Monday afternoon. This decision marks a significant moment for both Kreider and the struggling Rangers, who have recently seen their fortunes decline.
Despite having recently secured a victory against the Dallas Stars, the Rangers suffered another setback with their 3-1 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes, pushing them to only four wins out of their last 16 games. The team's current situation appears dire, prompting head coach Peter Laviolette to make bold moves to shake up the roster.
Kreider has been with the Rangers since being drafted 19th overall in the 2011 NHL Draft and is known for his scoring prowess. This season, he has recorded 11 goals and just one assist through the first 30 games. The announcement of his being benched has not only raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike but suggests possible trade talks might be imminent.
“Kreider has been dealing with an achy back, but is healthy enough to play,” noted Vince Z. Mercogliano of USA Today, indicating there are no physical limitations impacting his ability to compete.
Kreider’s exclusion from the lineup is particularly noteworthy; it’s the first time he will sit due to performance since the start of his career more than a decade ago. According to Peter Baugh of The Athletic, this decision highlights the current discontent many might feel within the organization, as both Kreider and former captain Jacob Trouba had been mentioned as potential trade candidates.
“Kreider’s struggles have underscored much more significant issues with the Rangers,” stated Mollie Walker from the New York Post. The team’s failure to perform up to expectations this season, particularly after previously winning the President’s Trophy, has fueled speculation surrounding the roster’s future.
Kreider, who previously had multiple 35-goal seasons, finds himself overshadowed by his own struggles. His average time on ice this season has dipped to 17:26 minutes—his lowest since 2020-21. This decline, coupled with only three points accrued over the last 11 games, marks a troubling trend for the player who once led the league with the most power-play goals.
The news of Kreider being scratched goes as far back as general manager Chris Drury's announcement earlier this season, which made it clear the Rangers were open to discussions about trading several players, including Kreider. Following the recent trade of Trouba, Kreider’s future within the organization appears uncertain. Coach Laviolette’s decision to bench Kreider sends out clear signals: performance is key, and no one is immune to scrutiny during tough times.
With the Rangers now sixth in the Metropolitan Division and sitting significantly behind other contenders, there’s pressure to act swiftly. Discussions about Kreider’s future will likely become intensifying as trade rumors continue within the NHL. Fans are left to ponder whether this healthy scratch is just the beginning of significant changes to the roster before the trade deadline.
This recent benching and the surrounding circumstances raise palpable tensions among fans, analysts, and players alike. While Kreider's future could be uncertain, the impact of this decision could reverberate through the entire Rangers organization as they seek to right the ship.
Given Kreider’s established history with the Rangers and his experience, it’s also evident he has much to contribute if he finds his rhythm again. The current predicament inevitably leads to the larger question: does this signify the beginning of the end for Kreider’s time with the Rangers, or is it merely a wake-up call for him to regain his scoring touch?
