Add The New York Post on Google Chris Kreider is expected to be on his way out of Anaheim.
Due to the Ducks running into a salary-cap crunch, they’re reportedly expected to waive — with his approval — the former Ranger.
Due to Leo Carlsson’s matched offer sheet of a five-year, $90 deal and the expected extension for Cutter Gauthier, Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek had his hands tied.
Chris Kreider of the Anaheim Ducks in action during Game Five of the First Round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Edmonton Oilers at Rogers Place on April 28, 2026, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. NHLI via Getty Images Kreider, 35, was traded to the Ducks last summer after spending 13 years in New York.
He will become a free agent if not claimed, according to Sportsnet, and several sources said he wants to head back to the East Coast.
Kreider is from Boxford, Mass., and sources told the outlet he would not report if he’s claimed by a team he does not wish to play for next season.
The same sources also indicated the winger did not like the trade options presented to him, especially the “sweeteners” that may have to be included to close it.
Kreider had the 2026-27 season left on his contract with a $6.5 million cap hit but only $4 million in cash is due after he was paid a signing bonus July 1.
Ducks left wing Chris Kreider (20) waves to fans after the New York Rangers played a tribute video to him in honor of his time as a Ranger during the first period of a game on Monday, Dec. 15, 2025, at MSG in Manhattan. Robert Sabo for NY Post On Dec. 15, 2025, Kreider played at Madison Square Garden for the first time not dressed in Blueshirts jersey.
It was also a big returning night for Jacob Trouba, who was dealt in the middle of the 2024-25 season to the Ducks.
“Obviously, I had an extended summer to let it sink in and certain brush points that allowed me to adjust,” Kreider said at the time before playing the Islanders in New York as well on Dec. 11. “Going out there for the first time, eventually moving out there. I think the biggest thing is how great the organization has been, how great the players have been. It’s definitely made it easier.”
He described the trip to the Garden as a “business trip” in doing his best to play down his return.
“Obviously, playing here is incredibly special, but the Anaheim experience has been fantastic. It’s just kind of been positive on all fronts. A lot of gratitude. Just feel very lucky,” he said following the Ducks’ 4-1 win.
Last season, Kreider tallied 50 points with 22 goals and 28 assists, helping lead Anaheim to its first playoff berth in eight years.
