Kreider addresses locker room struggles amid trade rumors
- Chris Kreider discussed his recent back spasms that had sidelined him from games.
- The Rangers' power play has struggled without scoring for six consecutive games.
- Kreider's comments reflect the internal tensions and frustration within the team, possibly indicating a need for change.
In Raleigh, North Carolina, Chris Kreider addressed reporters on Wednesday morning, shedding light on the atmosphere within the New York Rangers' locker room following recent trade rumors linked to him and captain Jacob Trouba. Kreider, dealing with back spasms, shared that he had spoken with General Manager Chris Drury regarding the trade discussions but chose not to disclose specific details about their conversation. Kreider's openness about his injury marked a deviation from the team's standard practice of broadly categorizing injuries. He emphasized the team's struggles, particularly in their power play, which had not scored in their last six games. Team members acknowledged the stress in the locker room due to trade speculations, and Kreider described the environment using terms like "frustration," "angst," and "tension." He went on to explain how these feelings can potentially serve the team, pointing out that acknowledging their weaknesses is a step towards improvement. Kreider's remarks come at a crucial time, as the Rangers face challenges that may define their season moving forward, with the team navigating a tough stretch of games. The situation underscores the pressures athletes face and how external factors affect chemistry and performance within a team.