Chris Kreider Signs With Montreal Canadiens, But One Carey Price Moment Still Haunts Fans 

Chris Kreider is heading to Montreal, but not every Canadiens fan is ready to welcome him. The team announced a one-year deal with the 35-year-old forward on Saturday, with Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reporting that the contract carries a $2.15 million cap hit and can include bonuses. Kreider's signing also brings back memories of his 2014 playoff collision with Carey Price. That moment has not been forgotten by some fans, while others believe it is time to move on and give Kreider a chance in Montreal. 

Why Are Canadiens Fans Still Talking About Chris Kreider and Carey Price? 

Kreider's history with Montreal is the biggest reason the signing has created such a strong reaction from fans. During the 2014 Eastern Conference Final, Kreider collided with Carey Price during a breakaway, and Price missed the rest of the series with a knee injury. The Rangers went on to reach the Stanley Cup Final, and Kreider became a villain to many Canadiens fans.

Chris Kreider is joining the @CanadiensMTL! 🔵⚪🔴 pic.twitter.com/YsHrXVRd9C

— NHL (@NHL) September 12, 2026

That history came up again after Montreal announced the signing. 

• PresentfeaR wrote, “I thought they despise Mr kreider...after they lost to the Rangers in the playoffs.” Sonia M. 
• Blais also pointed to the time that has passed since the incident, writing, “Wasn't the same gm's, he played under Gorton and friend of St-Louis… many fans will never forgive him even if happened 12 years ago.”

Others are already willing to put the past aside and focus on what Kreider can bring to the team. 

• Loosh Kin wrote, “Forget the past people. Kreider is here. He should've been drafted instead of Leblanc IMO. But mtl fans would have crucified management if they didnt pick the QC layer. Kreider was always the better pick. Give him a chance.”

Some fans even looked at the possibility of Kreider helping Montreal win the Stanley Cup. 

• USOpenBimbo wrote, “Wouldn't it be hilarious if Kreider can lead us to a cup, one that the guy he hurt, could never do.” 
• Blyde shared a similar thought, writing, “Winning the cup with Kreider and without Price … Cycle of life ig.” 
• Noah added, “So many mixed emotions as a Carey Price fan.”

Chris Kreider Gets A Fresh Start In Montreal After Ducks Exit 

Kreider became a UFA after the Anaheim Ducks mutually terminated his previous contract last week. That seven-year deal carried a $6.5 million cap hit, while his new Montreal contract has a $2.15 million AAV. According to Friedman, bonuses could add $3 million to his base salary.

The Canadiens entered the deal knowing Kreider was coming off a strong season. He scored 22 goals and 50 points in 75 games with Anaheim and added two goals and seven points in 12 playoff games. His arrival also gives Montreal another experienced forward for a team that reached the 2026 Eastern Conference Final.

What Can Chris Kreider Bring To Canadiens This Season? 

Kreider is entering his 15th NHL season after playing 958 regular-season games, mostly with the New York Rangers. He has scored at least 20 goals in 11 of his 14 seasons and finished last season with 22 goals and 50 points.

His playoff record is also notable. Kreider has played 135 postseason games and has 50 goals and 83 points. Last season, he added seven points in 12 playoff games with Anaheim.