Chris Kreider handled getting scratched out of the lineup in a mature manner.
Chris Kreider finally got the opportunity to speak out about getting scratched from the lineup during the New York Rangers’ Monday afternoon matchup against the New Jersey Devils.
The Rangers had their first practice since the holiday break as Kreider was asked about his benching and he certainly did not shy away from the topic.
“I think there's a lot of details within my game, stuff that I'm capable of doing, stuff that I've talked about with the coaches, focused on and worked on last few days or so and recommitted to,” Kreider said via Colin Stephenson of Newsday.
It’s a positive sign to see Kreider take accountability for his play and handle this whole situation in a mature manner.
Meanwhile, Peter Laviolette was in no mood to answer questions regarding Kreider, with the intention of moving on entirely.
“I already answered those questions the other day,” Laviolette said. “You asked me why decisions were made, I answered them. He had a good practice today. He is an important piece to the team and we are moving forward. We need him and everybody to be great players from this point out in order to work our way back in.”
By the looks of Friday’s practice and Laviolette’s statements, it seems Kreider will be back in the lineup on Saturday night against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Despite being included in numerous trade rumors, the decision to scratch the veteran forward was not roster management related and he will likely remain in New York for the time being.
The 33-year-old has recorded 11 goals, one assist and 12 points in 30 games while averaging 17:26 minutes.
