By Matt Dolloff, 985TheSportsHub.com
One of the biggest names at the NHL Trade Deadline is off the board. As the New York Rangers announced via Twitter on Monday, they’re retaining forward Chris Kreider with a contract extension instead of trading him.
Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman first reported the numbers for the Kreider extension: seven years, $6.5 million annually.
Kreider has 24 goals and 45 points through 60 games this season, putting him on pace for career-highs in those categories. His $6.5 million salary would make him the Rangers’ fourth-highest-paid player behind Artemi Panarin, Henrik Lundqvist, and Jacob Trouba.
The Boxford, Mass. native became a popular trade target among takemakers and opinion-havers this season. Instead he ended up going nowhere.
UNIONDALE, NEW YORK – JANUARY 16: Chris Kreider #20 of the New York Rangers scores the game winning goal on the power-play at 19:35 of the third period against the New York Islanders at NYCB Live’s Nassau Coliseum on January 16, 2020 in Uniondale, New York. The Rangers defeated the Islanders 3-2. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
The Bruins are still believed to be pushing for a deal with the New Jersey Devils for winger Kyle Palmieri, who wouldn’t be a pure rental because he’s signed for next season. They’ve also been involved in other trade rumors for smaller pieces. It seems that GM Don Sweeney is not done making moves, even after adding Ondrej Kase from the Ducks.
Kase practiced on a line with David Krejci on Monday and figures to get a real opportunity to play on the second line consistently. But the Bruins would be in even better shape if they acquired a right wing who would be a no-brainer at that spot, like Palmieri.
Moves continue to be made all around the league. You can get all of the NHL trade deadline updates you need in one place at the 98.5 The Sports Hub Live Blog.
Matt Dolloff is a digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Have a news tip, question, or comment for Matt? Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff or email him at matthew.dolloff@bbgi.com.
