Chris Kreider’s Impressive Start with the Ducks

Right now, the Rangers could really benefit from someone like Chris Kreider.

After being traded to Anaheim in the offseason, Kreider has hit the ground running with the Ducks, notching four goals and one assist in just three games.

In his home debut on Tuesday, he scored two power-play goals, including the game-winner with just over a minute left, leading the Ducks to a 4-3 victory against the Penguins.

“Of course,” Kreider said when reflecting on the excitement of making a solid first impression on a new fan base.

Drafted 19th overall in 2009 out of Boston College, Kreider spent the first 13 seasons of his career with the Rangers.

During his time in New York, he became a key player, appearing in 886 games (which ranks 8th in team history) and scoring 326 goals (3rd all-time), along with 256 assists for a total of 582 points (10th).

It’s entirely possible that his jersey might one day hang in Madison Square Garden, but for now, the Rangers have decided to move forward without the 34-year-old.

Trading Kreider opened up some cap space, enabling the Rangers to reshape their roster before he agreed to the transfer to Anaheim.

His Ducks career kicked off with two away games against the Kraken and Sharks, culminating in his first regular season game at Honda Center.

“Sometimes it’s the same, sometimes it’s different,” Kreider noted, comparing his experiences. “It’s not a blue carpet, it’s an orange carpet.” He expressed how special it is to participate in an NHL home opener, calling it a great experience that shouldn’t be taken for granted. “If it doesn’t give you goosebumps, I don’t know what does,” he added, emphasizing how enjoyable home openers can be.

Kreider didn’t score in the season opener against the Kraken, which ended in a 3-1 defeat, but he rebounded with two points in a thrilling 7-6 overtime win against the Sharks.

On Tuesday, he played a crucial role, scoring the Ducks’ first goal after they fell behind 2-0 and later assisting on the game-winner before netting a goal himself to secure the win.

Even as Kreider shines, the Rangers have struggled, marking their worst start at home in franchise history.

After losing 2-0 to the Oilers, they made history as the first NHL team to begin a season with three consecutive scoreless games at home.

“He’s the best power play guy and has been for years,” said Ducks forward Troy Terry of Kreider. “He gives us confidence and is an anchor in net,” he added, highlighting Kreider’s impact on the team.