Chris Kreider, Canadiens agree to one-year, $2.15 million contract: Sources
The New York Times • • sports
Key Points:
- Chris Kreider signed a one-year contract with the Montreal Canadiens, reportedly worth $2.15 million plus performance bonuses that could total $5.4 million.
- Kreider, 35, became a free agent after mutually terminating his contract with the Anaheim Ducks, where he scored 22 goals and 50 points last season.
- Despite being booed by Canadiens fans due to a 2014 incident involving goalie Carey Price, Kreider's familiarity with coach Martin St. Louis and executive Jeff Gorton influenced his decision to join Montreal.
- Kreider is expected to fill a key role on the Canadiens' second line, bringing speed and forechecking ability, while limiting younger forwards' opportunities in that position.
- The one-year deal fits under the salary cap without requiring additional roster moves, and mitigates risk given Kreider's age and playing style.
