Chris Kreider, the New York Rangers’ longest-tenured player, was designated as a healthy scratch for the team’s game against the New Jersey Devils at the Prudential Center on Monday afternoon. This surprising move by head coach Peter Laviolette follows the team’s alarming slump, having lost 12 of their last 16 games, which drops them to sixth place in the Metropolitan Division and 22nd overall in the NHL.
Kreider, who ranks eighth on the team with 12 points this season, has struggled offensively, scoring just one goal and assisting only once over the last nine games. His shooting issues have contributed to this streak, as all of his goals came on special teams, with only two of his 11 goals netted at even strength. According to reports, Kreider’s performance at five-on-five has been particularly concerning; he currently ranks last among teams' skaters with at least 20 games played, based on expected goals for percentage.
The scratch is viewed as Laviolette's attempt to send a strong message to Kreider and the rest of the struggling squad. Kreider had previously missed three games during the last month due to back spasms, raising concerns about his health. Although it was initially speculated this decision could relate to his physical condition, sources indicate he was healthy enough to step on the ice, marking the scratching as strictly performance-driven. "This was a performance-based decision," stated one source familiar with the situation.
Since Kreider has been considered integral to the Rangers’ top offensive unit, his absence was felt during practices leading up to the rivalry game. His limited contributions have raised eyebrows, particularly following his inclusion in trade discussions mentioned by president and general manager Chris Drury. Last month, during communications with other teams, Drury explicitly identified Kreider and made it clear the franchise might entertain offers for the 33-year-old winger, who is the team’s third all-time leading goal scorer.
The culmination of Kreider’s struggles has highlighted the pressing need for change within the locker room. Reflecting on the Rangers' recent disastrous outings, the decision to sit Kreider signifies both desperation and urgency as the team seeks any strategy to revitalize its prospects for the remainder of the season. Laviolette’s maneuver is interpreted as part of his broader strategy to purge the roster of underperformers.
While the healthy scratch raised initial concern among fans and pundits, it is also perceived as part of Laviolette's concerted effort to create accountability among players. Kreider’s performances have become emblematic of the Rangers’ struggles; he is expected to respond positively to the challenge. Kreider registered only one point—a rather unremarkable empty-net goal—in his last eight games, making the decision both understandable and necessary from the coaching perspective.
The Rangers' management finding Kreider’s name prominently featured during potential trade discussions isn’t surprising. With the NHL's holiday roster freeze looming over the league, speculation of moves is rife, and Kreider's future remains uncertain as the team grapples with its performance issues. The chatter surrounding Kreider has likely been uncomfortable for the player as it intersects with his own efforts to maintain focus on the ice.
At the end of the recent match, Kreider's absence may have had mixed reactions among players and fans alike. His storied career with the Rangers has led to numerous highs, but this season has not panned out accordingly. What remains to be seen is whether this scratching will serve as the impetus Kreider needs to kickstart his season or if it will deepen the narrative of decline for one of the team's greatest assets. The Rangers must work diligently to regain composure and find direction as they navigate their way back to playoff contention.
