Chris Kreider is expected to be waived by the Anaheim Ducks, with his approval, due to the team facing a salary cap crunch. The move comes just one season after Kreider was traded to Anaheim from the New York Rangers.
Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek has had limited flexibility with the salary cap, compounded by Leo Carlsson's matched offer sheet and an expected extension for Cutter Gauthier. Kreider, 35, was acquired by the Ducks last summer after spending 13 seasons with the Rangers. He has one season remaining on his contract with a $6.5 million cap hit, though only $4 million in cash is due after a signing bonus was paid on July 1.
If not claimed, Kreider would become an unrestricted free agent. Sources indicate he prefers to return to the East Coast and would not report to a team he does not wish to play for. The winger reportedly was not pleased with trade options presented to him, particularly the "sweeteners" that might have been required to finalize a deal.
Kreider played at Madison Square Garden on December 15, 2025, for the first time not in a Rangers uniform. He commented at the time that the adjustment to Anaheim had been made easier by the organization and his teammates. Describing his return to New York as a "business trip," Kreider expressed gratitude for his experience with the Ducks, stating, "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." Following the Ducks' 4-1 victory that night, he added, "the Anaheim experience has been fantastic."
Last season, Kreider contributed 50 points for the Ducks, with 22 goals and 28 assists, helping the team reach the playoffs for the first time in eight years.