Similar to how the Capitals struck a deal before their arbitration hearing with Marcus Johansson two days ago, the Rangers have come to an agreement with forward Chris Kreider before theirs today.
Chris Kreider & #NYR have settled: 4 yrs, $18.5 m, including $1m signing bonus in first three yrs.
— Tim Wharnsby (@TimWharnsby) July 22, 2016
The $4.625 million AAV is a $2 million raise from his previous deal signed in 2014. That deal was also signed the day of an arbitration hearing, almost two years ago to the day (7/23/14).
Chris Kreider Signs 4-Year Deal with Rangers
Kreider is coming off of his second consecutive season of 20+ goals and 40+ points. He had a 21-goal, 43-point campaign. It is a three-point drop from his breakout season in 2014-15. Many expected him to take another step this past year, but at 25, he still has some growth left. He now has four more years to realize it. The 6’3″, 226-pound winger did take 22 less shots in one less game played. Indecisiveness may have played a role.
Chris Kreider contract with #NYR has 11 team no trade in last two years. Paid $5M,$5M,$4.5M,$4M.
— Aaron Ward (@NHL_AaronWard) July 22, 2016
Role and Importance
He was still a staple in the Rangers top-six for Alain Vigneault‘s group, occupying the net front presence on a power play that was middle of the pack at 14th overall (18.6%). As the Rangers have fallen as a possession team from 8th overall in 2013-14 (52.40% CF%) to 26th this season (47.37% CF%); Kreider too has decreased from a driver at 55.6% CF% to a seemingly average 49.7%. However, he still led all forwards who played the whole season with the team (Eric Staal arrived at the deadline). He was also one of the few bright spots on the scoresheet in the five-game loss to the Penguins, scoring two goals.
NYR and Chris Kreider 4.625 AAV /4 years. #NYR
— Aaron Ward (@NHL_AaronWard) July 22, 2016
Drafted 19th overall in 2009, the Boston College product will be looked at to lead the next core of Rangers up front and be a big player in trying to extend the Stanley Cup window that seems to be slowly closing as Henrik Lundqvist grows another year older (34). He has been doing his job the past few runs, scoring 14 goals and 24 points in his last 39 playoff games.
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