Chris Kreider Captures His Usual Power Play Role Back After Temporary Demotion

In his second game back from an upper-body injury, Chris Kreider seems to have captured his usual role back with the New York Rangers.

When Kreider returned to the lineup after missing four games, Peter Laviolette stuck the veteran forward on the second power play unit, despite serving a role on the first unit all season.

It was unclear if this was a temporary move from Laviolette or if he really intended to reduce Kreider’s usage.

We quickly found out the answer to that question.

Against the Utah Hockey Club on Thursday night, Laviolette yanked Alexis Lafrenière from the main power play unit in favor of Kreider. When it matters most, Laviolette still trusts Kreider to play those pivotal minutes.

“The power play moves around,” Laviolette said. “We have trust in whoever goes out there. He’s one of the best in the business… We switched it up and tried something different.”

With Kreider healthy, he should continue to see his role increase.

The 33-year-old has recorded 14 goals, two assists and 16 points in 36 games while averaging 17:33 minutes.