A change of coaches hasn’t helped Chris Kreider’s status with the New York Rangers.
The former Boston College standout was one of seven players sent to the AHL as they get the roster cut down for opening day. Kreider had his struggles last season with former coach John Tortorella. Now with Alain Vigneault at the helm he had an opportunity to show the new boss what he had.
Apparently what he showed wasn’t good enough and fellow youngsters Jesper Fast and J.T. Miller are cracking the opening night roster instead.
Joining Kreider on the cut list are forwards Darroll Powe, Brandon Mashinter, Marek Hrivik, and Oscar Lindberg. Defensemen Stu Bickel and Connor Allen were also sent to AHL Hartford.
For Kreider he’ll need to get focused in the minors to get back to Manhattan. After arriving on the scene in a big way two playoffs ago, the talent is there, it just has to be harnessed.