Chris Kreider played just 7:21 of ice time in New York's 4-3 overtime win over Boston on Wednesday and it's possible that he could be demoted to the minors. "He just hasn't played well; I don't have a reason," coach John Tortorella said. "It's something we really need to talk about as an organization. I still think he needs to go through the process." Tortorella cautioned that the situation has to be handled delicately, so as not to hinder Kreider's development. The 21-year-old has one shot and a minus-2 rating in three appearances with the Rangers this campaign. While playing in the AHL with Connecticut during the lockout, he also struggled to contribute offensively. It would be a tough decision to send him to the minors, but it might be preferable to spending time in Tortorella's doghouse.

Chris Kreider (upper body) says he's fine after a hard hit from Penguins D Brooks Orpik in Sunday's loss. Kreider said it was his jaw that was the issue and he didn't sustain a concussion on the hit. Expect him back in the lineup Wednesday, but his fantasy value is severely limited by the fact that he's been skating with Brian Boyle and Taylor Pyatt. It's hard to recommend him in most formats without more ice time and top-six placement.

There was no update on Chris Kreider's condition Monday after he received a hard hit from Pittsburgh's Brooks Orpik on Sunday. Orpik's shoulder made contact with Kreider's jaw and the rookie was rocked by the collision. We should get a clearer picture of his status if he is able to practice on Tuesday.

Chris Kreider absorbed a high hit from Penguins defenseman Brooks Orpik late in the third period of Sunday's game. Kreider wasn't seen in the locker room following the game and the Rangers didn't have an update on his condition. Consider him day-to-day for now.

Chris Kreider will start the season on the Rangers' third line. He will flank Brian Boyle with Taylor Pyatt starting at left wing. This is not an ideal spot for Kreider who get 12-13 minutes of playing time per game. Although he may be a fantasy asset in the long term, we don'e see Kreider having an impact this season. If he registers 20 points we would consider his year a success.

Chris Kreider knows his roster spot isn't guaranteed and coach John Tortorella reiterated that fact on Monday. "Chris is still fighting for a spot," the Rangers bench boss said. "There better not be any illusions and I don't think there is. He's a kid who came in, played some good games and was God-awful in some games in the playoffs and that's what you expect out of a kid." Kreider hasn't played any regular-season NHL games yet, as he made his debut with the Blueshirts during the 2012 playoffs, where he netted five goals, with two assists, in 18 games.

Chris Kreider is eager to prove he deserves a roster spot with the Rangers at training camp. "Slate's wiped clean and you have to earn your spot," he said. "I'll keep my head down, work hard and try to make the team. That's all you can do." Kreider hasn't been overly impressive in the AHL with the Connecticut Whale this season, where he has notched five goals and seven assists in 33 games, in addition to 55 penalty minute. His play has been described as inconsistent in the minors, but with a shot at making the the big club on the line he should elevate his work ethic.

Chris Kreider has had a difficult time establishing himself in the AHL during the big league's work stoppage. He has notched five goals and 12 points in 33 games with the Connecticut Whale, but will attend the Rangers' training camp in an attempt to land a roster spot. Kreider's performance in the minors shouldn't sour you on your expectations for this NHL season. He's expected to compete for a top-six role after he shined during his playoff stint with the Blueshirts in 2012.

Chris Kreider notched a goal in Connecticut's 5-2 win over Manchester on Friday night. After Kreider burst on the scene with five goals in his first 18 games -- all in the postseason -- but he's taken some time to find his groove in the AHL. He has just five goals and 11 points on the year. Kyle Jean and Ryan Bourque each had assists.

Chris Kreider scored two goals for Connecticut in a 7-5 win over the Bridgeport Sound Tigers Friday. After joining the Rangers directly from the NCAA last season, Kreider was an instant hit with the club and figures to be in the NHL if not for the lockout. While biding his time with the Whale he has totaled 10 points in 14 games. Matt Gilroy scored a pair of goals in the win.