2024 Chris Kreider report card

It seems that whenever we do a Chris Kreider report card, the comments focus on what people think he should be, as opposed to what he is. At 33 years old, Kreider is what he is, and it’s a top-six speedy, physical winger who uses his rare combination of speed and strength to separate from the opposition. He’s evolved into the best net-front presence in the NHL as well, using that evolution to put up 127 goals in the last three seasons.

Kreider’s 2023-2024 season was no different, as he put up 39 goals and 75 points without missing a game. His powerplay numbers were again stellar with 18 goals and 29 points with the man advantage. Kreider also added 2 goals and 3 assists while shorthanded. For those keeping track, that puts his even strength scoring line at 19-22-41.

Given Mika Zibanejad’s offensive struggles last season, it’s safe to say Kreider carried that duo with whatever RW they had, ranging from Kaapo Kakko to Blake Wheeler, and finally finishing with Jack Roslovic.

Kreider was the offensive play driver on a line that many expected more from. Once again, he was stellar in driving both quality and quantity while also finishing on his chances. His defensive numbers look worse than they actually were, notably because Blake Wheeler was simply not a good fit on that line and they suffered defensively. Still, Kreider showed what he is on the ice: A steady presence who plays all three strengths very well.

Kreider’s main detractors state he is inconsistent and disappears at times, an argument I never quite understood. No one is perfect. Stars have off games, take a shift/game off every now and then. Take a step back and ask yourself this: Have you ever been under the weather, but still worked that day? Were you as productive? Likely not. These guys aren’t robots, they are people.

I understand wanting to see 100% from every player in every game, but it’s simply not realistic. Even Mariano Rivera had off nights.

In the playoffs, Kreider was one of the only skaters that still played his role well, putting up 8 goals and 12 points in 16 games. If you recall, Kreider willed the Rangers to a Game 6 win over Carolina, halting what looked to be an epic collapse. Kreider won the Rangers that series, and had 5 goals and 2 assists in the 6 games.

Against Florida, Kreider was mostly shut down, but was again involved in both Rangers goals in Game 5, a game the Rangers lost 3-2. Kreider was not the only Ranger to struggle against a very clearly better Panthers team.

Kreider is still an exceptional talent at 33 years old, and will likely continue to be for the duration of his contract.

2024 Chris Kreider report card grade: A