Chris Kreider Struggling To Find A Role On Team USA At 4 Nations Face-Off

Chris Kreider likely won't play for Team USA against Team Canada.

Chris Kreider will likely serve as a healthy scratch for the second consecutive game at the 4 Nations Face-Off.

Kreider was benched for Team USA’s 5-1 victory over Team Finland on Thursday night.

Team USA coach Mike Sullivan admitted he’s had conversations with Kreider about his overall role and where he fits in the lineup.

“What I’ve tried to do is meet with a lot of players in this first three days of the process, and being very transparent and straightforward with what our game plan is and what their contribution or what their role is in trying to help this team win,” Sullivan said. “I think that’s a really important responsibility that I have as a head coach, and I take it very seriously, and I just have too much respect for these guys to not have those types of conversations.

“And Kreids is one of those guys. He deserves those conversations. All of the guys do. We’re trying to define roles and expectations for all our guys and explaining the whys.”

Kreider has also seen his role with the Rangers diminish this season, but he continues to play a critical two-way role for the Blueshirts.

The 33-year-old forward has recorded 16 goals, four assists and 20 points in 47 games while averaging 17:17 minutes.