Chris Krieder: New York Rangers Teammates Welcome Newcomer with Open Arms

The New York Rangers organization has agreed to terms with 20-year-old Boxford, Mass., native Chris Kreider, as the New York Post reported on Tuesday.

Head coach John Tortorella must be salivating at the opportunity to have such a strong presence on the ice.  Kreider, who weighs 220 pounds and is a towering 6'3", not only has the brawn, but has the skills and offensive power to back up his size.

Kreider was drafted by the Rangers 19th overall in 2009. After playing three seasons at Boston College and producing stellar results, he is ready to take his game to the next level-the NHL.  

This year alone, Kreider has scored 23 goals and had 22 assists, leading Boston College in goals, shots and points.

He's helped Boston College win two NCAA championships, as well as leading the World Junior Championship USA Team to gold in 2010. 

It isn't clear where he will fit in the playoffs, but I suppose that will be determined as things progress.

One thing is for certain, the Rangers believe in this kid, because they wouldn't have signed him a few days prior to their first postseason game if they didn't feel he would fit into their carefully constructed mix. 

According to Larry Brooks of the New York Post, his Rangers teammates are excited to have him as part of the team.

Fellow Boston College protege, Brian Boyle told Brooks after practice Tuesday, “If he comes, we’ll welcome him with open arms,”

And I have a feeling so will the fans.