Chris Kreider skates way into Team USA 4 Nations finale lineup

BOSTON — Chris Kreider played his way into Team USA’s championship lineup.

The longest-tenured Ranger suited up and skated in the United States’ matchup with Canada for the 4 Nations Face-Off trophy Thursday night at TD Garden.

USA head coach Mike Sullivan had high praise for Kreider after he made his tournament debut against Sweden.

United States’ Chris Kreider, center, is congratulated after his goal against Sweden during the first period of a 4 Nations Face-Off hockey game on Feb. 17, 2025, in Boston. AP

Jonas Brodin #25 of Team Sweden checks Chris Kreider #20 of Team USA in the 4 Nations Face-Off game at TD Garden on February 17, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts. — Jonas Brodin of Team Sweden checks Chris Kreider of Team USA in the 4 Nations Face-Off game at TD Garden on February 17, 2025, in Boston, Massachusetts. Getty Images

It was evident the 33-year-old had made an impression.

“Sure it does,” Sullivan said when asked if Kreider fits the style his team wants to play. “He’s a big, strong kid that can play a physical game, I would anticipate that it will be a physical game. Both teams play a similar style, both north-south teams that play with a ton of speed and a ton of physicality.

“I think Kreids, his game, without a doubt suits that.”

Kreider skated on the fourth line with New York teammate Vincent Trocheck and the Islanders’ Brock Nelson.