Kreider Nets First Canadiens Goal in Preseason Win Over Senators
Chris Kreider scored his first goal as a Montreal Canadien in Saturday's 4-2 preseason win over Ottawa. He tied the game in the first period by backhanding a loose puck past Samuel Ersson, with Nick Suzuki and Mike Matheson assisting. Montreal signed Kreider on Sept. 12 after Anaheim terminated his contract, and the team opens the regular season Tuesday at Toronto.
Kreider, 35, joined Montreal on a one-year contract Sept. 12, two days after Anaheim ended his deal. He had expressed interest in the Canadiens before signing. Previously, he played his whole career with the Rangers, scoring a personal-best 52 goals in 2021-22 and 22 in each of the last two seasons.
His first Montreal goal came at 13:31 of the opening period, tying the game. Suzuki and Matheson assisted. Dobson, Slafkovsky and Danault also scored in the 4-2 win. Montreal opens Tuesday at Toronto.
This signing may matter most to Canadiens fans and Montreal-area businesses tied to game nights, as a recognizable veteran could boost interest and attendance/viewership. It could also affect younger teammates, who may learn from an experienced net-front scorer. For Anaheim, the split may prompt discussion about contract terminations and player movement. Overall impact likely limited beyond sports, but local community identity and fan engagement could shift.