Gabe Perreault’s Rangers arrival is full-circle Chris Kreider moment
It was April 11, 2012, and Chris Kreider was stepping onto the ice for his first practice with the New York Rangers. Fresh off winning his second NCAA title in three years at Boston College, the 19th-overall pick of the 2009 draft had just signed his entry-level contract and was gearing up to make his NHL playoff debut against the Ottawa Senators.
Skating alongside fellow BC alum Brian Boyle, Kreider was getting a crash course in the Rangers’ style of play. Boyle, a seasoned veteran, was showing the young forward the ropes, including the art of shot-blocking, a staple of John Tortorella’s coaching philosophy.
Fast forward to Tuesday, and a similar scene was unfolding at the Rangers’ practice rink. Gabe Perreault, a sophomore winger from Boston College, was making his debut after the Eagles were upset in the NCAA regional finals by Denver. Just like Kreider years before, Perreault had signed his entry-level contract and was eager to make an impact at the NHL level.
The parallels between Kreider and Perreault were striking, both talented players coming from a successful college program and looking to make their mark in the NHL. The excitement surrounding Perreault’s debut echoed that of Kreider’s first practice with the Rangers, a mix of anticipation and optimism for what the future may hold.
As Perreault takes his first steps in the pros, he can look to Kreider as a shining example of what is possible with hard work and dedication. The Rangers organization has a history of developing young talent, and Perreault has the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of players like Kreider who have made a seamless transition from college to the NHL.
With the guidance of experienced players like Boyle and the support of the coaching staff, Perreault is poised to make a significant impact on the Rangers roster. The stage is set for another young star to shine in New York, and all eyes will be on Perreault as he embarks on this exciting new chapter in his hockey career.
