The Kreider factor: How important is he?

#20 of the New York Rangers celebrates his second period goal against the Chicago Blackhawks at Madison Square Garden on January 17, 2019 in New York City. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

Fans of the New York Rangers are conflicted when it comes to Chris Kreider. There are three options for his future and there are good reasons to pursue each of them. But, how valuable is Chris Kreider to the Rangers?

There is no denying that Chris Kreider is a New York Rangers team leader. He is one of the senior players in tenure and has been a role model for the younger players. All of those intangibles play a part in the decision-making process. But, statistically, how important has Kreider been to…