Chris Kreider wasted no time making himself visible at Canadiens camp, and not just because of his size.
On his first day on the ice, the veteran forward made a point of seeking out the younger players at the CN Sports Complex, talking with them and encouraging them. It was a small gesture on the surface, but one that immediately stood out during his first practice with Montreal.
Anthony Martineau noted the moment during today’s first on-ice session, writing: "Chris Kreider is taking part in his first practice with the Canadiens.
But he is making a point of going to see all the young players, taking the time to talk with them and encourage them.
No. 22's presence will be huge - in every sense of the word."
Martineau also described the scene as "Pure class from Kreider!"
For a player who just arrived, the message was clear: Kreider is already trying to set a tone.
That impression didn’t start at practice, either. Kreider signed his contract last Saturday, only days before camp opened, and followed that up by attending the team’s golf tournament the next day. The quick involvement has only reinforced the sense that he’s eager to be part of the group.
His physical presence has already been noticeable on the ice, too.
The 35-year-old is coming off a 50-point season with the Anaheim Ducks and arrives with a one-year deal that includes a base salary of $2.15 million, plus performance bonuses.
Camp runs through September 26, with two preseason games set for Saturday.
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