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Kreider’s Return to MSG With Ducks Puts Points Over Sentiment

The 34-year-old credits an analytics-driven reset for sustained scoring that now fuels Anaheim’s playoff push.

Overview

  • After 13 seasons with the Rangers and a summer trade, Chris Kreider visits Madison Square Garden on Monday as a Duck and says he is focused on securing two points.
  • He told Andrew Knoll he expects mixed emotions, noting plans to see family, former teammates such as Mika Zibanejad, and team staff before the puck drops.
  • Kreider has 13 goals in 28 games this season, projecting to 38, as Anaheim sits second in the Pacific Division, two points behind Vegas entering Sunday.
  • He credited ex-Rangers goalie Stephen Valiquette for a “Money Ball” approach that informed his 52-goal 2021–22 season and continues to guide his shot selection and timing.
  • Fellow ex-Ranger Jacob Trouba also returns with the Ducks after a difficult departure from New York, as Anaheim seeks results despite a 19-attempt road power-play drought and a bottom-five penalty kill.