Elliotte Friedman drops truth bomb over Rangers' "complicated situation" involving Chris Kreider, Trouba

The New York Rangers are facing a tough time on and off the ice. After starting strong with a 12-4-1 record, they have fallen to 13-10-1 after losing five straight. They briefly ended the streak with a 4–3 win over the Montreal Canadiens but lost their next game 5–1 to the New Jersey Devils. Their offense has struggled, and they are now fourth in the Metropolitan Division with 27 points.

General Manager Chris Drury is exploring trade options to improve the team. According to insider Elliotte Friedman, Chris Kreider and Jacob Trouba have drawn interest from other teams, including the Ottawa Senators. However, trading key players like Trouba may be tricky, as he might prefer to stay in New York for now.

Talking on the NHL Network broadcast to Lauren, Friedman shared:

"I think some teams are looking at is even if there is interest in Trouba, and I think there is, do you really want to acquire him when he's not going to be happy? Like I think next year he understands he's going somewhere else. This is his last year in New York. I don't think he wants to do it now, and I think that affects his situation.

I definitely think, there's interest in Kreider. I have no doubt about that ... I think some teams are trying to figure it out, but the first thing I think that the jury wants to do is figure out exactly what the trade market is for his guys. He's fielding those calls. I think Ottawa was among the teams has talked to the Rangers about something there. But I think there's a lot more to man a really complicated situation there over at MSG."

Kreider has scored 10 goals in 21 games but has not registered any assists, reflecting the team’s struggles. Trouba’s future also seems uncertain, with reports suggesting this could be his last season in New York.

Coach Peter Laviolette and the team must quickly regain their form. Without improvement, the Rangers risk falling further in the standings.

New York Rangers forward Chris Kreider's response

Following the Ranger's 4–3 defeat to the Hurricanes, New York forward Chris Kreider shared his frustration over trade rumors and the team’s poor performance this season.

"I think it's pretty obvious there's frustration, angst, tension. Good. We're 20 games in. Let's go through this s**t now and figure out who we are." Kreider said.

Kreider reflected on last season’s Presidents’ Trophy win but admitted the team is now being “exposed.” He emphasized the need for improvement.