Chris Kreider Contract Extension: Sides Agree On Four-Year Deal
Chris Kreider and the New York Rangers have officially agreed on a four-year deal worth $4.625-million per year, avoiding arbitration.
Rangers agree to terms with restricted free agent forward Chris Kreider on a new contract. 4 years, $4.625 AAV according to @NHL_AaronWard.
— Sean Hartnett (@HartnettHockey) July 22, 2016
The only thing you could possibly be upset about when it comes to this deal is that it’s not longer. What a contract extension by Jeff Gorton. Kreider could have gotten $5-million a year — something I was asking for — and no one would have blinked an eye. To lock him down for the next four years, buy out two UFA years and most of his prime on those terms? That’s masterful work.
This deal not only gives the Rangers flexibility now, but it keeps an important player around for the right years of his career for the right price.
The Rangers now have only Kevin Hayes to lock up before Gorton is finished with all the team’s vital RFAs. As for right now, it’s been a really good week for the Rangers’ general manager between this deal and the Derick Brassard trade.
Thoughts, guys?
UPDATE: Just to add some color to the contract, the deal includes an 11-team no trade clause the final two years.
Chris Kreider contract with #NYR has 11 team no trade in last two years. Paid $5M,$5M,$4.5M,$4M.
— Aaron Ward (@NHL_AaronWard) July 22, 2016