Chris Kreider Reflects on Career Departure from Rangers
STAMFORD, Conn. — Last month marked a significant chapter in Chris Kreider’s life as he transitioned from being the longest-serving player for the New York Rangers to joining the Anaheim Ducks. Kreider, who has committed over a decade to intense summer training at Prentiss Hockey Performance in Stamford, connected with the familiar environment of the facility before this monumental shift.
Transition to Anaheim
On a Monday morning just prior to his workout, the 34-year-old forward engaged in light banter while waiting at the front desk, even pretending to handle administrative tasks. He greeted friends and former teammates Adam Fox and Brett Berard, celebrating a moment where Kreider’s history as a Boston College alumnus was also present, as Berard donned an Eagles shirt, where Kreider also shone before turning pro.
For Kreider, the transition to Anaheim brought a wave of emotions, especially since he grew up in Boston, played college hockey in the Northeast, and spent his entire NHL career thus far with the Rangers. “Good,” was his response when asked how he was feeling about the change, albeit with a chuckle at the complexity of the situation. Unlike players who face abrupt in-season trades, Kreider had the chance to mentally prepare for his move after the Rangers informed him of their plans to trade him early in the offseason.
Career Highlights and Challenges
The trade saw Kreider move to a fresh start after nearly 15 years with New York, where he was drafted 19th overall in 2009 and became a key player following a thrilling debut in the 2012 playoffs. His scoring prowess made him one of the franchise’s all-time greats, ranking third in goals and first in playoff tallies. However, after a season that saw him struggle with injuries and team performance, Kreider was part of a roster shake-up aimed at revitalizing the team’s future.
Facilitating the transition, the Rangers sought a destination favorable for Kreider, resulting in a deal with the Ducks, a choice Kreider agreed upon after discussions with family. The Anaheim roster, featuring familiar names like Jacob Trouba and Ryan Strome, provided a sense of comfort for Kreider, who acknowledged the emotional complexity of leaving New York.
“He’s a very proud Ranger,”
remarked Strome, who played alongside Kreider, emphasizing the significance of this change for the veteran player.
Looking Ahead
Kreider’s recent performance had been marred by injuries, with a two-year streak of at least 36 goals disrupted by a downturn that saw him score just 22 times last season. Struggling with various injuries, including a severe hand issue that needed surgery, Kreider’s previous season reflected personal and team challenges. Now, post-recovery, he is intent on leveraging his resilience in a new environment, citing the young talent on the Ducks as a source of excitement.
For now, Kreider has not yet explored Anaheim but is eager to discover his new surroundings. Despite this shift, he remains committed to maintaining his connections in the Northeast, stating with certainty that Connecticut and New York will stay his offseason base due to his deep roots and lasting history in the region. As he navigates this new chapter, Kreider’s dedication to both his past and future remains evident, instilling hope for rejuvenation in an unfamiliar yet promising path ahead.
