Chris Kreider was asked about his linemate and close friend Mike Zibanejad during Monday’s end-of-season press conference, and Kreider had to fight back tears as he raved about Zibanejad.
With Zibanejad standing close by for emotional support, as he described it, Kreider gave a heartfelt response to a question about how Tampa Bay seemed to center its focus on Zibanejad, working to slow him down and, in turn, slow the Rangers scoring attack down to a crawl.
”It’s a challenge and it’s difficult, but it’s hard to get frustrated in moments like that, because it’s a sign of respect,” Kreider said. “I couldn’t be more proud of his response. It’s very contagious when your leader, the best player on your team and a guy who does everything for you, rises to the challenge night in and night out.”
Kreider’s presser concluded after that, as he left the table and the room. His praise of Zibanejad prompted many on social media to call for Kreider to be named team captain, but for Kreider, his words were simply an emotional response of appreciation for his linemate who, paired with Kreider, helped lead the Rangers to a place very few thought they could reach this season.
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