Kreider Nears Rangers History as Team Hosts Blue Jackets

NEW YORK — The New York Rangers host the Columbus Blue Jackets in a Metropolitan Division clash Saturday night at Madison Square Garden, with Chris Kreider on the verge of making franchise history.

Kreider, who has 115 career power play goals, is one shy of tying Camille Henry for the most in Rangers history. The veteran forward has been a key contributor this season, ranking tied for second on the team with 14 goals, including five game-winners. His 49 career game-winning goals are second in franchise history, trailing only Rod Gilbert’s 52.

“Chris has been a cornerstone for us,” said Rangers head coach Peter Laviolette. “His ability to step up in critical moments is unmatched.”

Kreider’s impact extends beyond scoring. Since the 2021-22 season, his 11 shorthanded goals lead the NHL, and his 57 power play goals rank tied for third. He also holds the franchise record for most go-ahead goals in the final 10 minutes of regulation (15).

Meanwhile, Artemi Panarin continues to dominate offensively, leading the Rangers with 19 goals and 47 points this season. He is one assist away from surpassing Steve Vickers for ninth place on the franchise’s all-time assists list. Panarin’s 145 multi-point games since joining the Rangers in 2019-20 rank eighth in team history.

Defenseman Adam Fox has also been a standout, with 32 assists this season, tied for sixth among NHL defensemen. Fox is three points away from tying Harry Howell for fifth place on the Rangers’ all-time points list among defensemen.

In goal, Igor Shesterkin has been a steady presence, going 3-0-1 in his last four starts. He has allowed two or fewer goals in seven of his last 13 games, solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s top goaltenders.

The Blue Jackets, coming off a 4-1 win over the San Jose Sharks, are led by Kirill Marchenko, who has 18 goals and 31 assists this season. Columbus has won eight of its last 10 games, averaging 3.6 goals per game during that stretch.

Saturday’s game marks the first meeting between the two teams this season. The Rangers, currently 21-20-3, are looking to improve their 4-7-0 record against Metropolitan Division opponents.

“Every game in the Metro is crucial,” said Rangers forward Vincent Trocheck, who ranks third in the NHL in faceoff percentage (60.2). “We need to bring our best effort.”

The puck drops at 7 p.m. ET, with the game airing on NHL Network and MSG Network.