The Anaheim Ducks have made a significant move to bolster their roster, acquiring veteran forward Chris Kreider from the New York Rangers. The trade, finalized today, marks the end of an era for Kreider in New York, where he has spent his entire 13-season NHL career. In exchange for Kreider, the Rangers receive prospect Carey Terrance and a mid-round draft pick, while the Ducks also get a mid-round pick.
Kreider, 34, brings a wealth of experience and scoring prowess to Anaheim. He has consistently been a reliable goal-scorer throughout his career, notching 20 or more goals in 10 of his 12 full seasons with the Rangers. Despite a down year in the recent season with 22 goals and 30 points in 68 games, his career-high of 52 goals in the 2021-22 season demonstrates his offensive capabilities. The Ducks hope that a change of scenery and the opportunity to play alongside familiar faces will rejuvenate Kreider's performance.
One of the key factors in Kreider's decision to waive his no-trade clause was the chance to reunite with former Rangers teammates Jacob Trouba and Ryan Strome, both of whom are already playing for the Ducks. Additionally, the presence of veteran coach Joel Quenneville in Anaheim was a significant draw for Kreider. This pre-existing familiarity could ease Kreider's transition to a new team and system.
The Ducks are looking to Kreider to provide a boost to their offense and help the team return to playoff contention. Anaheim has missed the playoffs for the past seven seasons, and the addition of a proven scorer like Kreider signals their intention to compete in the upcoming years. Kreider's experience in 123 playoff games, including a Stanley Cup Final appearance in 2014, will be invaluable to a young Ducks team aiming to make a deep postseason run.
For the Rangers, trading Kreider represents a strategic move to reshape their roster and shed salary. The Rangers are receiving Carey Terrance, a 20-year-old center who was selected by the Ducks in the second round of the 2023 NHL Draft. Terrance has played for the Erie Otters in the OHL, where he recorded 39 points in 45 games this past season. The Rangers hope that Terrance can develop into a valuable asset for their team. By trading Kreider, the Rangers free up $6.5 million in cap space, providing them with flexibility to pursue other roster improvements in the offseason.
Kreider's departure marks a significant turning point for the Rangers. Drafted 19th overall in 2009, he has been a cornerstone of the franchise for over a decade. He ranks third in Rangers history with 326 goals, and his contributions to the team's playoff runs have made him a fan favorite. As the Rangers transition to a new era under head coach Mike Sullivan, trading Kreider signifies a bold step towards building a new identity.
