The New York Rangers face pivotal decisions regarding Chris Kreider's future as the team enters an offseason of retooling. Kreider, a long-time forward with the club, has experienced a steep decline in performance this season, raising questions about his role and potential trade value. The recent talk suggests that a shakeup in the roster is inevitable, with Kreider potentially being a primary target for trades or even a buyout. Given his large contract and a no-trade clause that limits his options, the Rangers might find shifting Kreider out of their plans challenging yet necessary.

Despite a stellar playoff showing less than a year ago, Kreider's inconsistent effort and lingering injury concerns have contributed to a disappointing season for the Rangers. With the team already saying goodbye to several core players, Kreider’s future feels uncertain as they look to reshape the roster. While some believe he could still have a place on the team if circumstances align, most see a separation as the most plausible outcome.

Gabe Perreault's entry-level contract is ready to be signed, but the New York Rangers should exercise patience before rushing him into the NHL. After a stellar season at Boston College, where he accumulated a notable 108 points, the Rangers must consider the implications of burning a year of his contract if he joins the roster now. Unlike Chris Kreider's early debut during the Rangers' playoff push in 2012, the current team lacks a similar competitive edge, making it unwise to rush Perreault, who might benefit from an AHL stint.

Perreault's development is crucial, and he would be better served honing his skills in the AHL while avoiding the toxic locker room environment of the NHL team this season. If the Rangers want to maximize Perreault's potential, they should allow him to gain experience and confidence in the AHL before making the leap to the NHL.

The New York Rangers are struggling to find consistency as they battle for a wildcard playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. With eight games remaining in the season, the Rangers have regressed significantly compared to last year when they won the President's Trophy. Key players have underperformed, including Mika Zibanejad, Chris Kreider, and Alexis Lafrenière, while the power play has notably fallen, going 2 for 35 in recent games.

General Manager Chris Drury's offseason decisions have added to the turmoil, as the team appears to be dealing with the fallout from player departures. Head Coach Peter Laviolette faces scrutiny over lineup choices and the team's inconsistent effort. Despite the struggle, if Igor Shesterkin can perform at a high level down the stretch, there might still be a chance for the Rangers to sneak into the playoffs and make a run with their playoff-experienced roster.

The New York Rangers continue to struggle under pressure, recently suffering a disappointing 3-1 defeat against the Los Angeles Kings. Despite a near-goal by JT Miller that was overturned, the Rangers showcased a lack of offensive motivation, managing only three shots on goal in the first period. This offensive drought is attributed largely to Chris Kreider, who has seemingly checked out of the season, tallying just one goal and no assists in his last eight games. Kreider's continued presence on the ice raises questions about his commitment and performance. Meanwhile, rookie Brett Berard is stuck in the press box, while the decision-making of coach Peter Laviolette has come under fire for lacking accountability with veteran players like Kreider.

The recent trade for Carson Soucy from Vancouver has also drawn criticism, as he has struggled to find his footing, being a healthy scratch multiple times. The Rangers now face the tough task of revitalizing their lineup and finding solutions to their current issues if they hope to salvage their season.

The New York Rangers have faced a tumultuous season, marked by underperformance from key players. In an innovative twist, the podcast hosts initiated a fan-voted "Zero Effort Award" to highlight the players who have notably disappointed this season. The leading contender for this unfortunate accolade is Chris Kreider, whose lack of effort has been critiqued by fans as he seemingly coasts through games. Reports suggest that Kreider has appeared disengaged, especially following the team's significant roster changes.

Alexis Lafrenière also found himself in the spotlight as another nominee for the award. Despite his previous promise, fans feel he has failed to live up to expectations this season. The sentiment regarding both players reflects a broader frustration among Rangers supporters about the team's performance amidst a critical playoff push.