Chris Kreider and Anaheim Ducks mutually agree on contract termination
Chris Kreider's contract with the Anaheim Ducks is terminated, making him a UFA as the team seeks cap relief.
Quick answers
What led to the Chris Kreider contract termination?
The Anaheim Ducks mutually agreed to terminate Chris Kreider's contract due to a salary cap crunch. General Manager Pat Verbeek explored trade options but did not find a feasible solution. This decision allows the Ducks to gain salary cap space ahead of NHL training camps.
What is next for Chris Kreider after the contract termination?
Following the contract termination, Kreider will become an unrestricted free agent (UFA). He has expressed a desire to return to the Eastern Conference, ideally near the New York Rangers, where he spent the majority of his career.
Ducks and Kreider part ways
The Anaheim Ducks have mutually agreed to terminate Chris Kreider’s contract. This decision comes amidst a salary cap crunch for the team, just days before the NHL training camps are set to begin.
According to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, Kreider’s decision to terminate his contract places him on waivers. Once placed on waivers, he will officially become an unrestricted free agent (UFA).
Kreider’s tenure with the Ducks
Kreider, a 35-year-old left winger, joined the Ducks after a long career with the New York Rangers. His contract with Anaheim is notable for its value, at seven years and $6.5 million per season.
Last season, Kreider demonstrated his offensive capabilities by scoring 22 goals and accumulating 50 points across 75 games. Additionally, he contributed two goals and seven points during 12 playoff games.
Kreider’s preferred destinations
Kreider aims to return to the Eastern Conference after just one season with Anaheim. He prefers to play near the Rangers, where he spent the first 13 years of his NHL career.
Reports indicate that if Kreider is claimed off waivers by a team he does not wish to join, he may choose not to report.
Implications for the Ducks
With Kreider’s contract terminated, the Ducks will enjoy increased salary cap space. This is crucial as they face demands for contract extensions from key players, notably star right winger Cutter Gauthier.
General Manager Pat Verbeek had sought trade opportunities for Kreider but was unwilling to add assets to facilitate a trade. The financial flexibility gained from this contract termination is now essential for Anaheim’s roster planning.
The salary cap situation for the Ducks has worsened, driven by an offer sheet tendered to Leo Carlsson earlier in the offseason. As Anaheim navigates its financial structure, terminating Kreider’s contract marks a significant adjustment.
For related context, see NHL trade coverage.
Reporting for this story draws on The Hockey News.
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