Anaheim Ducks, Chris Kreider Expected to Part Ways via Mutual Contract Termination

The Anaheim Ducks and veteran forward Chris Kreider are moving toward an unexpected resolution to the forward’s contract situation. According to Sportsnet insider Elliotte Friedman, Anaheim is expected to place the 35-year-old winger on unconditional waivers for the purpose of mutual contract termination. The transaction requires the agreement from both sides and will allow Kreider to hit the open market as an unrestricted free agent once the waiver process runs its course.

Where The Money Went

This move comes as a bit of a surprise, after many assumed Kreider would be traded by the Anaheim Ducks after general manager Pat Verbeek found himself facing a serious salary cap crunch heading into training camp. This summer, the Ducks committed significant salary cap space after matching an aggressive 18 million dollar offer sheet for Leo Carlsson, and with forward Cutter Gauthier also due for a massive extension following a breakout 41-goal season. Kreider entered the final year of his deal carrying a 6.5 million dollar cap charge, although only 4 million dollars of actual salary is owed after Anaheim paid out his July 1 signing bonus. Trade talks around the league stalled because opposing general managers demanded sweeteners in the form of high draft picks or top prospects. Rather than giving away future assets to dump money, Verbeek pivoted toward mutual termination.

Leaving Money on the Table

Walking away from guaranteed money isn’t common, especially for a productive top-six forward. Kreider scored 50 points last season and remains a strong net-front presence, especially on the powerplay. His motivation stems from his desire to return to the Eastern Conference, where he spent the first 13 seasons of his career with the New York Rangers and where his family remains rooted. Word around the league indicates Kreider would not have reported if an undesirable team attempted to claim him on waivers, effectively clearing his path straight to free agency.

What's Next For Kreider

Clearing Kreider's entire 6.5 million dollar hit hands Anaheim the exact financial breathing room necessary to lock up Gauthier and keep roster flexibility intact. For Kreider, forfeiting 4 million dollars in cash gives him complete control over his destination and the chance to chase another Stanley Cup with an Eastern contender on a cap-friendly pact.

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