In a game that feels like it’s springtime, New York Rangers forward Chris Kreider strikes early against the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Skating four-on-four, New York Rangers forward Chris Kreider finished off an excellent passing play to give his team a 1-0 lead late in the first period.

Kreider connected on a tic-tac-toe play with With Brady Skjei and Mika Zibanejad. Kreider, the man who’s been rumored to be dealt coast-to-coast recently, has now scored four goals in his last six games for the Rangers. Mika Zbanejad continues to have the hot hand as he has tallied four primary points (one goal and three primary assists on a goal) over the Rangers’ last two periods. For Brady Skjei, the assist was his second of the season.

Kreider has stepped up his play significantly since his name has come up in trade rumors over the last week. He now has four goals and three assists on the season.

The Rangers outshot the Lightning 13-8 in what has been a strong first period for the Rangers.