Chris Kreider jumps into the arms of Derek Stepan and teammates after scoring a clutch tying goal with 1:41 left in Game 5. The Rangers stayed alive with Ryan McDonagh providing the overtime winner with Kreider screening in front.
AP Photo by Julie Jacobson/Getty Images

Since his playoff baptism under former coach John Tortorella in 2012, Chris Kreider has delivered some big goals in the clutch. He came through again last night scoring the tying goal with 1:41 left in regulation.

The Rangers won Game 5 thanks to captain Ryan McDonagh beating Braden Holtby at 9:37 of overtime to stay alive against the Caps in the second round series. They don’t reach tomorrow’s crucial Game 6 without Kreider. The recently turned 24-year old former 2009 first round pick not only took a perfect Derek Stepan drop pass and buried a one-timer past previously impenetrable Braden Holtby. He also screened Holtby on McDonagh’s winner which took a home bounce off Caps defenseman Tim Gleason.

No stranger to the playoffs, Kreider already has an impressive postseason resume. Since 2012, no Blueshirt has scored more goals. His clutch goal Friday gives him three this playoffs and 14 since the club’s run to the Conference Finals under Tortorella.

Last year when they fell behind the Pens 3-1, Kreider was a big factor in their second round comeback. After returning for Game 4, he keyed the Rangers Game 5 win at Pittsburgh with a goal and assist. He was a physical force in their six-game series victory over the Canadiens totaling eight points (3-5-8) while accidentally knocking out Carey Price on a hard drive to the net. One that Canadian media choose to remember differently. They forget that Kreider was tripped by Alexei Emelin. There wasn’t much he could’ve done to prevent it.

Of course, Kreider is now known as a “goalie killer.” That goalie killer hasn’t lived as much on the edge this Spring. However, he’s remained one of the Rangers’ most physical players. After being held in check by the Caps, he was more aggressive in Game 5. Using his size and speed to get in on the forecheck, he delivered six hits and was more purposeful. That included a clean takeout and recovery of a puck behind the net nearly setting up Stepan for a goal.

It’s that kind of talent Kreider possesses. If he ever puts it altogether, he could become a dominant force. He’s one of their most dangerous forwards. Only Rick Nash has the size and strength to ward off defenders. But he’s been kept off the score sheet despite battling hard. Kreider is the more physical player who brings a lot to the table.

For the Rangers to force a Game 7 back at The Garden, they’ll need another big game from the former Boston University standout. He can have tremendous impact. Even in low scoring defensive games, he’s hard to contain. Without him, they’re not playing tomorrow.