New York Rangers Chris Kreider listed at Number One on TSN’s Trade Bait List, Georgiev Fifth

New York Rangers, Chris Kreider
Jan 11, 2020; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; St. Louis Blues goaltender Jordan Binnington (50) defends the net against New York Rangers left wing Chris Kreider (20) during the third period at Enterprise Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports

During this lengthy All-Star break/bye week period, many trade rumors still swirl around the New York Rangers. According to TSN, Chris Kreider is at the top of the list for teams willing to make a deal for his services. TSN also listed Goaltender Alexandar Georgiev fifth, citing multiple teams that might be willing to trade for him as a backup for a contending team, or as a future top goaltender for a non-playoff bound team.

Many Teams Interested in the New York Rangers Chris Kreider

Kreider has a reported 11-team no-trade clause in his contract but would seem to be willing to go to a Stanley Cup contending team. Contenders would value Kreider due to his 77 games of playoff experience and the physicality he brings to the lineup. Recently, the Boston Bruins have been reported to have an interest in the Rangers forward.  The Bruins have the first-round draft pick that the Rangers reportedly want as well as some younger wingers, such as Anders Bjork, who could grow into the role Kreider may leave behind.  The Bruins also like the fact that Kreider grew up in Boxford, Mass., and played collegiately at Boston College.

Recently Sportsnet.ca has mentioned the Vancouver Canucks as a possible trade partner.  The surprising Canucks find themselves in first place in the Pacific Division and would love Kreider for the rest of the season and the playoffs. The only issue for them is that with so many teams bidding for him, they may not want to pay the hefty price of a first-rounder and a prospect, especially if it means giving up future all-star from Sweden Nils Hoglander.

Rumors still swirl that the New York Rangers may keep Kreider

NBC Sports Boston cited anonymous hockey sources in their report that it remains possible that the Blueshirts could hold on to Kreider for the rest of the season. After the all-star break, the Rangers have back-to-back games against the lowly Detroit Red Wings, which could help jump-start a run towards the playoffs. At that point, general manager Jeff Gorton may decide to keep Kreider for that run. Arriving in Stl. Louis for the All-Star game, Kreider is saying all the right things. He told reporters that “I’ve only ever pictured myself in a Rangers jersey. So until I’m not a Ranger, I’m a Ranger.”