Chris Kreider praises the Rangers’ acquisition of Reilly Smith
The New York Rangers recently acquired veteran winger Reilly Smith from the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for two draft picks at the start of NHL Free Agency. Smith is expected to add significant value to the Rangers’ roster, and star winger Chris Kreider is enthusiastic about the new addition.
In a media session on Thursday, Kreider expressed his high regard for Smith. He described Smith as “incredibly smart” and highlighted his extensive skills and contributions. “Playing against him for a long time and watching him in Vegas, he can do everything,” Kreider said, as reported by NHL.com. “He can play anywhere on your power play, is a very effective penalty killer, and possesses a high level of intelligence and craftiness. He’s a strong skater with a lot of skill and dynamism. He’s a really good player.”
Chris Kreider, who holds the Rangers’ record for the most playoff goals and ranks third in franchise history for playoff points, has had a notable career with the team. His playoff experience includes reaching the Stanley Cup Final in 2014, and making the Eastern Conference Finals in 2015, 2022, and 2024. Despite these close calls, Kreider remains determined and eager for a championship.
Kreider reflected on the Rangers’ recent playoff runs, noting their recent elimination by the Florida Panthers, who went on to win the Stanley Cup. He mentioned watching the Cup Final and emphasized his team’s readiness for the upcoming season. “It’s a super-close group, obviously not a lot of turnover, so I think everyone is in the same frame of mind,” Kreider said, via NHL.com. “Just champing at the bit, ready to go.”
The Rangers are looking to make the playoffs for the fourth consecutive season in 2025. They will kick off their 2024-25 campaign against the Penguins on October 9, and it will be intriguing to see if Smith and Kreider can help lead New York to its first Stanley Cup since 1994.
