New York Rangers' Chris Kreider fractures foot days after signing new contract

PHILADELPHIA — Rangers coach David Quinn likened the news of Chris Kreider's extension to Christmas morning, but that gift has turned into coal in short time.

The New York Rangers didn't want to know what life looked like without Kreider in their lineup, which led to a new seven-year, $45.5 million deal. But just four days later, it looks like they're going to find out anyway. 

Kreider left Friday's 5-2 loss against the Philadelphia Flyers after blocking a shot with his foot in the first period. At the beginning of the second period, the team announced the foot was fractured.

"It’s tough," Rangers forward Mika Zibanejad said of the news. "I don’t know how to put it into words, really. Obviously, a key player and a key guy in the locker room."

The timetable for Kreider's injury is yet to be determined, but he's been a driving force for the Rangers during their recent playoff push. He ranks third on the team with 24 goals to go along with 21 assists, while playing a key role on the top line alongside Zibanejad and Pavel Buchnevich.

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The Rangers (35-25-4) entered Friday having won nine of their last 10 overall to move within two points of the Columbus Blue Jackets for the final wild card in the Eastern Conference.

With the Blue Jackets losing to the Minnesota Wild, the Rangers missed an opportunity to tie for the playoff spot with a win. 

The team is off Saturday, then they'll host the Flyers at noon Sunday.