After a Rough Season, a Magical Finale May Mark the End for a Beloved Ranger
On April 12 in Raleigh, North Carolina, the New York Rangers closed the book on a disappointing 2024-25 campaign. While the season overall was forgettable, the team delivered a feel-good 4-0 win over the Tampa Bay Lightning in what felt like a storybook ending at Madison Square Garden.
The night was dedicated to legendary broadcaster Sam Rosen, who called his final game after 40 iconic years behind the mic. But while all eyes were on Rosen up in the booth, there was a sense of finality down on the ice too — especially surrounding long-time Rangers forward Chris Kreider.
A Farewell Feeling in the Air
For many fans, it felt like Kreider was skating in a Blueshirts sweater for the last time. His future in New York has been the subject of constant debate: some have viewed him as a leader deserving of the captaincy, while others have criticized his inconsistency.
This season was far from Kreider’s best. After three straight years of scoring 36+ goals — including a 52-goal outburst in 2021-22 — he managed just 21 goals and 7 assists this year, ending with only 28 points. That’s a staggering 57-point drop from his 75-point performance last season.
An Emotional Goodbye?
If this truly was his swan song at MSG, the signs were all there. Teammates gave him extra stick taps, and the emotions were visible on the bench. Perhaps the clearest indication came when beat reporter Vince Mercogliano tweeted:
“Chris Kreider just scored and Will Cuylle immediately went to get the puck. Everyone in the building has a sense of what could be his final game as a member of the #NYR.”
Kreider, who has been with the team for 13 seasons, still carries a $6.5 million cap hit through the 2026-27 season — a number that could push the Rangers toward exploring trade options or a potential buyout.
What Comes Next?
With the offseason officially underway, tough questions loom — and none bigger than what lies ahead for Chris Kreider. Whether it’s a farewell or a fresh start, his future will be one of the key storylines for the franchise moving forward.
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