In a significant maneuver during the NHL offseason, Chris Kreider is reportedly set to part ways with the Anaheim Ducks, a move that comes as the franchise looks to clear cap space amid crucial contract negotiations with restricted free agent Cutter Gauthier. According to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, Kreider has approved a transaction that places him on waivers for the termination of his contract.

Friedman noted that there is the potential for Kreider to reject any claims on his contract if he is picked up by a team outside of the New York area, where he reportedly wishes to return, closer to family. "According to several sources, Kreider has indicated he desires to return east, closer to family where he spent the first 13 years of his career, and will not report if claimed somewhere he prefers not to play," Friedman reported.

Financial Implications of Kreider's Waiver

Chris Kreider, who turns 35 in April, has been a notable asset for the Anaheim Ducks since signing with the team. His contract, which runs through next season, features a cap hit of $6.5 million. Upon clearing waivers, Kreider will become an unrestricted free agent. His total salary amounts to $5 million for the season, but due to an earlier signing bonus paid to him this summer, he is only owed $4 million going forward.

Prior to the decision to place Kreider on waivers, Ducks general manager Pat Verbeek had considered various trade options but opted not to include any additional assets, potentially limiting their return in a deal.

Kreider's Performance and Impact

Last season was not without its accolades for Kreider—he recorded his eighth consecutive season with at least 20 goals. In the 2025-2026 campaign, Kreider amassed 50 points (22 goals, 28 assists) in 75 games, significantly contributing to the Ducks' advancement past the first round of the playoffs for the first time since 2017. This performance will likely make Kreider an enticing target for multiple teams in the Eastern Conference as they seek to bolster their rosters with skilled wingers.

Furthermore, the Ducks will face the challenge of starting the season without two key wingers, as Kreider's exit leaves rookie Leo Carlsson without the support of either player he frequently teamed with last season. Troy Terry is still recovering from hip surgery, compounding the Ducks' offensive concerns.

The Ducks' Cap Space Dilemma

This offseason, the Ducks encountered a financial hurdle by matching the Philadelphia Flyers' sizable $18 million AAV offer sheet for Carlsson. As per PuckPedia, Anaheim found themselves with about $9 million in projected cap space heading into the week. However, this amount likely falls short of accommodating a desirable new contract for Gauthier, further complicating their financial strategy.

Paul Shaheen of NHL Network Radio revealed last month that Gauthier's representation had declined a four-year, $13 million contract offer from the Ducks. The organization is under pressure as the deadline for the start of the regular season approaches on October 2. With only a week remaining before a new collective bargaining agreement takes effect on September 16—an agreement that restricts eight-year contracts and modifies bonus structures—the Ducks and Gauthier’s camp have pressing incentives to finalize a deal.

Looking Ahead to Gauthier's Situation

The Ducks have a crucial week ahead, with their roster decisions and cap management set against a backdrop of urgency. The anticipated negotiations with Gauthier will be pivotal not only to the player’s future but also to the Ducks' strategy moving forward. The upcoming changes, including a tighter cap situation due to the new CBA, emphasize the need for quick resolution as they seek to balance their roster and financial stability.

In summary, Kreider's waiver situation illustrates wider themes of cap management and roster dynamics in the NHL, particularly for organizations like the Ducks that are in transitional phases. Kreider’s potential exit marks the end of an era for the player and the team while simultaneously opening new avenues for both Kreider and the Ducks as they navigate through the complexities of contract negotiations and team composition.